Overview
Calicium hyperellum (Ach.) Ach., commonly known as the mossy stonecrop or the scurfy stonecrop, is a species of lichenized fungi in the family Caliciaceae. This lichen is a composite organism consisting of a fungus and a photosynthetic partner, and it can be found growing on rocks, stone walls, and gravelly soil in temperate and arctic regions of the world.Description
The thallus of Calicium hyperellum is crustose, meaning it grows closely attached to the substrate and lacks a clearly defined margin or upper surface. It forms a whitish-gray or yellowish-green layer that is often thick and scurfy, with numerous small projections on the surface. As the name suggests, the lichen resembles a stonecrop plant, with the scurfy projections resembling the leaves of the plant. The apothecia, which are the reproductive structures of the lichen, are small and inconspicuous, with a diameter of less than 1mm. They are usually sunken into the thallus, making them difficult to spot. The ascospores, which are the spores produced by the fungus, are hyaline and ellipsoid, with dimensions of 14-16 x 8-10 µm.Uses
Calicium hyperellum does not have any known practical uses for humans. However, it is an important component of ecosystems, providing habitat for a variety of microorganisms, and contributing to nutrient cycling processes.Distribution
Calicium hyperellum has a circumboreal distribution, meaning it is found throughout the temperate and arctic regions of the world. It is commonly found in North America, Europe, and Asia, and it has also been reported from Greenland and Antarctica. In North America, the lichen is found in Alaska, Canada, and the contiguous United States, from Maine to Washington and south to Colorado and California. It grows on a variety of substrates, including rocks, cliffs, and boulders, as well as on soil, moss, and humus.Conclusion
Calicium hyperellum is a unique and fascinating lichen that can be found in a wide range of habitats throughout the temperate and arctic regions of the world. With its scurfy thallus and inconspicuous apothecia, it may be easily overlooked by casual observers, but it plays an important ecological role in its environment.Light Requirements
Calicium hyperellum is a shade-loving plant that primarily grows in areas with dim to moderate light. Exposure to direct sunlight can damage or stunt its growth. It is often found in forests, caves, and crevices where it is shaded by surrounding vegetation.
Temperature Requirements
This species thrives in cool to moderate temperatures and can tolerate frost or snow. The most suitable temperature range for Calicium hyperellum growth is between 5°C and 15°C (41°F - 59°F). Higher temperatures may reduce its growth rate and overall health.
Soil Requirements
Calicium hyperellum prefers moist, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH. The plant can grow in a variety of soil types, including loam, clay, and rocky soils. However, it does not tolerate standing water or soil that is dense or compacted. Adequate soil nutrition is also important for healthy growth, so adding organic matter to the soil prior to planting can be beneficial.
Cultivation of Calicium hyperellum
Calicium hyperellum is a type of lichen that grows on the bark of trees. It does not require any special cultivation methods, as it grows naturally in the wild. However, if you want to cultivate this plant, it is best to mimic its natural habitat.
Watering Needs
Calicium hyperellum is drought-tolerant and can survive long periods without water. Therefore, it does not require frequent watering. However, during the dry season or extended periods of drought, you can water it sparingly to keep it healthy.
Fertilization
Calicium hyperellum does not require fertilization, as it obtains all its nutrients from the air and rainwater. Therefore, avoid using chemical fertilizers on this plant, as it can damage its delicate structure and harm the environment.
Pruning
Calicium hyperellum does not require pruning, as it grows in a natural, circular manner. However, it is essential to keep it free from debris, leaves, and other plant materials that can suffocate or damage its delicate structure. Therefore, during routine cleaning, you can remove any debris or fallen leaves from the plant's surface to keep it healthy.
Propagation Methods of Calicium hyperellum
Calicium hyperellum, commonly known as "chalky map lichen," is a species of crustose lichen that belongs to the family Caliciaceae. It can be found growing on rocks, trees, or soil in dry, sunny areas. If you wish to propagate Calicium hyperellum, there are two methods that you can consider:
1. Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation is a method of asexual reproduction that involves producing new individuals from vegetative parts of an existing plant. In the case of Calicium hyperellum, you can propagate it by taking a small piece of the lichen and planting it onto a new substrate. After a few weeks, the lichen will begin to grow and spread on the new substrate. This method is best used when there is not enough reproductive material available, or when you want to create a new colony of lichen in a particular location.
2. Spore Propagation
Spore propagation is a method of sexual reproduction that involves producing new individuals from spores. In the case of Calicium hyperellum, the lichen produces small, brownish-black spore bodies that contain spores. To propagate Calicium hyperellum through spore propagation, you will need to collect the spore bodies and sow them onto a suitable substrate. After a few weeks, the spores will germinate, and new lichen individuals will begin to grow on the substrate. This method is best used when there is enough reproductive material available and you want to create a new colony of lichen in a particular location.
Propagation of Calicium hyperellum is relatively easy and can be done by following the methods outlined above. However, it is essential to note that lichens grow very slowly and can take years to establish a new colony. So, be patient and give your propagated Calicium hyperellum enough time to grow and spread.
Disease Management
Calicium hyperellum is susceptible to several fungal and bacterial diseases. One common fungal disease that affects the plant is leaf spot, which manifests as brown spots on the leaves. To manage leaf spot, it is essential to remove and destroy the affected leaves and maintain good air circulation around the plant. Fungal diseases can also be prevented by avoiding overhead watering and watering at the base of the plant. Bacterial diseases such as bacterial wilt can be managed by removing and destroying infected plants. Sanitation measures, such as cleaning of pruning tools and avoiding working with infected plants while wet, can prevent the spread of bacterial diseases.
Pest Management
Calicium hyperellum is fairly resistant to pests. However, it can be affected by aphids, which can be controlled by spraying the plant with a mixture of water and a small amount of dish soap. The soap suffocates the aphids, preventing further infestations. Calicium hyperellum can also be affected by spider mites, which can be controlled by spraying the plant with a mixture of water and neem oil. Neem oil acts as a pesticide by disrupting the lifecycle of the spider mites. Blister beetles and caterpillars can also feed on the leaves of Calicium hyperellum, causing defoliation. Placing row covers over the plant can prevent the beetles and caterpillars from feeding on the plant.
