The Plant Buellia smaragdula de Lesd.
Buellia smaragdula de Lesd. is a type of lichen that belongs to the family Caliciaceae. It is also known by several common names, such as emerald fire dot lichen, green shield lichen, and smaragdine Buellia.
Origin
This lichen is widely distributed in Europe and North America, and it typically grows on the bark of old trees, especially in moist and shady habitats. It prefers nutrient-rich substrates, such as those found in mixed deciduous or coniferous forests, but it can also grow on rocks and walls.
Appearance
Buellia smaragdula de Lesd. forms small, circular to irregular crusty patches that range in size from less than 1 cm to several cm in diameter. The thallus (body) of this lichen is thin and flat, and the surface is usually smooth or slightly wrinkled with a pale greenish-grey to dark olive coloration. The apothecia (reproductive structures) are small, scattered, and often surrounded by a white or pale-grey ring. The spores are hyaline, ellipsoid to fusiform, and measure around 11-15 x 4-6 ?m.
Uses
Buellia smaragdula de Lesd. has no known practical or commercial uses. However, it is an ecologically important organism that contributes to the biodiversity of forest ecosystems by providing habitats and food for a wide range of insects, birds, and mammals. Moreover, lichens like Buellia smaragdula de Lesd. are often used as indicators of air pollution, as they are very sensitive to atmospheric changes and can accumulate heavy metals and other pollutants in their tissues.
Growth Conditions of Buellia smaragdula de Lesd.
Buellia smaragdula de Lesd. is a lichen that is typically found in moist, shaded habitats, predominantly on trees and rocks. It is commonly found in subalpine and alpine areas.
Light Requirements
Buellia smaragdula de Lesd. is an obligate shade species, which means it thrives in low light or shaded environments. It is typically found growing underneath the canopy of trees or in shaded rock crevices, which provide protection from direct sunlight. Excessive exposure to sunlight or intense light can cause damage to the lichen and result in reduced growth.
Temperature Requirements
Buellia smaragdula de Lesd. can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it prefers cool temperatures. It grows best in areas with a mean annual temperature of 8-16°C (46.4-60.8°F), which is typically found in subalpine and alpine regions. During hot and dry periods, the lichen can become desiccated, which can lead to growth inhibition or mortality.
Soil Requirements
Buellia smaragdula de Lesd. is usually found growing on organic matter such as fallen twigs, leaves or moss. It can grow on a wide range of substrates, including acidic, neutral or calcareous rocks, but it prefers moist substrates. The lichen can accumulate minerals and nutrients from the surrounding environment, which are essential for its growth and survival.
Cultivation methods for Buellia smaragdula de Lesd.
Buellia smaragdula de Lesd. is a lichen that grows on rocks, trees, and other surfaces in nature. If you intend to cultivate it, you will have to carefully select the correct substrate for it to thrive. The best option would be rocks or porous stones that can hold moisture without getting waterlogged.
To cultivate Buellia smaragdula de Lesd., you can transplant the lichen on the chosen substrate, ensuring that it is securely attached to the surface. It is important to keep the lichen away from direct sunlight or excessive heat, so place it in a shaded area. Additionally, you can use a plant spray to keep humidity levels high and encourage healthy growth.
Watering needs for Buellia smaragdula de Lesd.
Buellia smaragdula de Lesd. requires consistent moisture levels to grow at its best, but you should take care to avoid overwatering. Overwatering can cause the substrate to become waterlogged, leading to fungal and bacterial growth that can harm the lichen. You can water the lichen once or twice a week depending on how quickly the substrate dries up. Additionally, you can use a plant spray to keep humidity levels high and avoid direct watering the lichen when the sun is high up in the sky.
Fertilization of Buellia smaragdula de Lesd.
Buellia smaragdula de Lesd. is a lichen and obtains all of its nutrients from the environment through photosynthesis. Therefore, it does not require fertilization. However, it is important to ensure that the lichen's growing conditions are optimal to maintain its healthy growth.
Pruning Buellia smaragdula de Lesd.
Buellia smaragdula de Lesd. does not require any pruning or cutting to maintain its growth. The lichen grows at its pace and continuously covers the substrate. However, if you notice the lichen starting to detach from the surface in some areas, you can gently remove the detached parts. Be careful to avoid damaging the lichen that is still attached to the substrate.
Propagation of Buellia smaragdula de Lesd.
Buellia smaragdula de Lesd. is a lichenized fungus that can grow on different types of substrates, such as rocks, bark, and soil. The reproduction of this species occurs through two different methods: sexual and asexual.
Asexual propagation
The asexual propagation of Buellia smaragdula de Lesd. occurs through soredia and isidia. Soredia are small, powdery aggregates of fungal hyphae and algae cells that can be found on the surface of thalli. Isidia, on the other hand, are small, branched outgrowths that can emerge from the thallus surface. Both structures can detach from the main thallus and start growing independently, developing into new individuals.
Asexual propagation is an efficient way for this species to colonize new habitats, and it can occur all year round, depending on the availability of suitable substrates.
Sexual propagation
The sexual propagation of Buellia smaragdula de Lesd. occurs through the production of apothecia. Apothecia are small, cup-like structures that can be found on the thallus surface. Inside the apothecia, sexual reproduction takes place, leading to the production of spores. The spores can be dispersed by wind or water, and if they land on a suitable substrate, they can germinate and develop into new individuals.
The sexual propagation of this species is less common than asexual propagation, and it usually occurs during the spring or summer months.
Disease and Pest Management for Buellia smaragdula de Lesd.
Buellia smaragdula de Lesd., commonly known as emerald Buellia, is a type of lichen that grows on rocks, soil, and trees. While it is generally hardy and resilient, it can sometimes be affected by various diseases and pests. Here are some common issues and ways to manage them:
Diseases
1. Lichen spot disease: This is a common disease that creates dark, sunken patches on the surface of the lichen. The spots can be caused by several different fungal species and can affect the overall health and appearance of the lichen.
To manage lichen spot disease, it is important to remove any infected pieces of the lichen as soon as possible. Additionally, you can use a broad-spectrum fungicide to protect the lichen from infection, and provide proper airflow and light to enhance its growth and recovery.
2. Algal overgrowth: Buellia smaragdula de Lesd. can also be affected by an algal overgrowth, which occurs when algae grow too rapidly and take over the lichen colonies. This can cause discoloration and degradation of the lichen, reducing its ability to photosynthesize and grow.
To manage algal overgrowth, you can attempt to physically remove the algae with a soft-bristle brush or by gently scraping the surface of the lichen. Additionally, reducing the amount of water and nutrients available to the algae by providing proper watering schedules and airflow can help keep the overgrowth in check.
Pests
1. Scale insects: These small, armored insects can attach themselves to the surface of Buellia smaragdula de Lesd. and suck the sap out of the lichen, causing discoloration, stunting, and even death.
To manage scale insects, you can use a soft-bristle brush to physically remove the insects and provide adequate watering to help keep the lichen healthy and resistant to further infestations. Additionally, you can use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to control the insect population and prevent further damage to the lichen.
2. Snails and slugs: These mollusks can also feed on Buellia smaragdula de Lesd. and cause damage to the lichen. They can leave behind slime trails and create ragged holes in the lichen body.
To manage snails and slugs, you can use physical barriers such as copper tape or diatomaceous earth to prevent them from accessing the lichen. Additionally, handpicking them off the lichen surface can help to reduce their population and protect the lichen from further damage.
By properly managing these common diseases and pests that affect Buellia smaragdula de Lesd., you can help ensure that the lichen thrives and remains a beautiful addition to any indoor or outdoor environment.
