Overview of Buelliella inquilina (Tuck.) Fink
Buelliella inquilina (Tuck.) Fink is a species of lichen that belongs to the family Caliciaceae. It is an obligate epiphyte, meaning that it requires another plant for support and growth, and cannot survive independently. It was first described by Edward Tuckerman and later named by Fink in 1935. The species is known by a few common names, including the Inquiline Sunburst Lichen, Diamond Frost Lichen, and Diamond Dust Lichen.
Origin and Habitat
Buelliella inquilina is commonly found in eastern North America, particularly in the Appalachian Mountains and the Northeastern United States. It prefers to grow on the bark of deciduous trees, where it forms small, rounded cushions or scattered granules. The lichen is also found in temperate rainforests, where it grows on the bark and twigs of trees, particularly hemlock and sugar maple.
Uses
Buelliella inquilina is not known to have any significant cultural, medicinal, or economic uses. However, the lichen is important for ecological reasons, as it contributes to the biodiversity of forest communities. It serves as a host for a variety of invertebrate communities, including mites, springtails, and small beetles.
General Appearance
Buelliella inquilina is a crusty, foliose lichen that ranges in color from pale green to bright yellow-green. Its upper surface is smooth, shiny, and dotted with small black dots, called apothecia, which contain the lichen's reproductive structures. The underside of the lichen is black and covered with small rhizines, which anchor the lichen to its host tree. It grows in small clusters, forming rounded cushions or scattered granules on the bark of trees. The lichen can reach up to 5 mm in diameter and 1-2 mm in height.
Light Requirements
Buelliella inquilina is a species of lichen that requires moderate levels of light for proper growth. It is best grown under partial shade conditions with intermittent exposure to sunlight. Direct exposure to intense sunlight can cause damage to the thalli and limit growth.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the growth of Buelliella inquilina is between 15°C to 25°C. The lichen grows best in cool and humid environments. It can withstand temperature fluctuations, but extreme temperatures can limit growth and even cause death.
Soil and Substrate Requirements
Buelliella inquilina is a lichen that grows on soil and dead organic matter. It is commonly found growing on soil and rocks in forests and woodland areas. Good drainage is important for proper growth as excess moisture can lead to rotting. The lichen can also grow on the bark of trees, but it requires a moist and shaded environment.
Cultivation
Buelliella inquilina is an epiphytic plant that grows on the bark of trees. To cultivate this plant, it is necessary to create an environment that mimics the natural habitat. The ideal temperature range for this plant is 16-22°C, with a relative humidity of 60-70%. They can grow well in low to moderate light conditions, but they prefer diffuse light instead of direct sunlight.
Watering Needs
Since Buelliella inquilina is an epiphytic plant, it does not require a lot of water. However, it is essential to keep the plant hydrated. The best way to do this is by misting the plant regularly. In drier environments, it may be necessary to mist the plant daily. Overwatering can result in the plant rotting, so it is necessary to avoid this at all costs.
Fertilization
Buelliella inquilina can benefit from occasional fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer with a 20-20-20 ratio every two to three months during the growing season – which occurs in the summer and fall. In winter and spring, the plant is generally dormant, and fertilization is unnecessary.
Pruning
Pruning is not required for Buelliella inquilina, but you can remove any dead or yellowing leaves to improve the appearance of the plant. Ensure that you use sterilized scissors or pruning shears to avoid introducing diseases to the plant. Always cut the leaves as close to the stem as possible to prevent the stub from remaining, which may be susceptible to infections.
Propagation of Buelliella inquilina
Buelliella inquilina is a lichen that occurs on bark and wood of living trees and on weathered wood. It is not possible to propagate Buelliella inquilina by conventional methods such as seedling, stem cutting, or grafting. The only method to propagate Buelliella inquilina is by taking a small piece of lichen that consists of both its thallus and fungus partner, and attaching it to another substrate.
Vegetative propagation
The vegetative propagation of Buelliella inquilina involves attaching a small piece of lichen to another substrate that is similar to the original substrate the lichen was growing on. The piece should include both the algal and fungal partners of the lichen. This piece may be attached with glue, nails, or by wrapping it around the new substrate. It is important to ensure that the new substrate has similar environmental conditions (e.g. light, humidity) as the original substrate to promote growth of the lichen. It may take several months to a year for the lichen to start growing on the new substrate.
Culture propagation
It is possible to conduct a culture propagation of Buelliella inquilina in a laboratory setting. By providing the lichen with a suitable growth medium, the lichen can be encouraged to grow and reproduce. This method involves isolating the algal and fungal partners from the lichen and culturing them separately. The algal component can be grown in a suitable liquid medium, whereas the fungal component can be grown in a suitable solid or liquid medium. When both components have grown to a certain extent, they can be combined to produce a new lichen thallus. The new thallus can then be attached to a suitable substrate and grown under the desired environmental conditions.
Disease and Pest Management for Buelliella inquilina
Buelliella inquilina, commonly known as rock tripe, is a lichenized fungus that belongs to the family Caliciaceae. While the plant is relatively disease and pest-resistant, it still faces some threats that can negatively impact its growth and health. Effective management of diseases and pests can ensure the longevity and sustainability of this species.
Common Pests
Some pests that might commonly affect the Buelliella inquilina include the following:
- Slugs and snails: These can cause considerable harm to the plant by consuming its foliage and stem. Removal of infested leaves and creating barriers around the plant can be an effective way to manage the pests.
- Scale insects: These can cause wilting, yellowing, and damage to the foliage and stem of the plant. Using horticultural oils or insecticides can be helpful in managing these pests.
- Aphids: These can cause stunted growth and distortion of the plant's leaves and are usually found in large groups. Regular pruning and washing off of the plant with water can help reduce the impact of these pests.
Common Diseases
The Buelliella inquilina plant may face certain diseases that can affect its growth and health. Some common diseases include:
- Phytophthora root rot: This is a common soil-borne fungal disease that affects the plant's root system and can cause wilting, stunted growth, and yellowing of the plant's leaves. Application of fungicides and ensuring adequate soil drainage can be helpful in managing this disease.
- Botrytis blight: This is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, flowers, and stems of the plant and can cause the plant to blacken and rot. Pruning of the affected area and regular sanitation can help prevent the spread of the disease.
- Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that can cause circular or irregular lesions on the leaves of the plant, leading to wilting and defoliation. Application of fungicides and ensuring proper sanitation can help manage this disease.
Preventive Measures
Preventive measures can go a long way in managing diseases and pests of Buelliella inquilina. These measures include:
- Regular inspection and monitoring of the plant for signs of pests or diseases.
- Frequent pruning of the plant to remove any infested or infected parts.
- Implementing proper sanitation practices like cleaning tools used on the plant and ensuring proper disposal of infected plant parts.
- Ensuring proper water drainage and avoiding over-watering the plant.
- Keeping the area around the plant clean and free of debris that can harbor pests or diseases.
