Calicium subtile Pers. - Description of a Refined Moss
Calicium subtile Pers., commonly known as the refined moss, is a terricolous lichen belonging to the Caliciaceae family. This lichen species is found in a wide variety of habitats ranging from moist deciduous forests to shrubby steppes and drier habitats such as sandy areas. Calicium subtile Pers. is distributed globally, including Asia, Europe, America, Australia, and Africa. It is truly a cosmopolitan species and can grow under diverse climatic conditions, including temperate, sub-arctic, and sub-tropical regions.
Appearance
The thallus of Calicium subtile Pers. is small, thin, and foliose, measuring up to 0.5 cm in diameter, and has a pale greenish-grey to yellowish-brown colour. The thallus is crustose and forms small, rounded cushions. The undersides of the lobes are pale and may be tinged yellow. The apothecia of this lichen give it a characteristic appearance. They are small, stalked, and have a brownish-yellow colour, measuring up to 0.3 mm in diameter. The spore-sacs of Calicium subtile Pers. are deep and distinct, and the asci are club-shaped and measure up to 45 µm long.
Uses
Calicium subtile Pers. is not used for medicinal purposes, but it is of great importance to scientists and environmentalists. The refined moss is considered an indicator species of old-growth forests, and its presence is an indication of good air quality. As a lichen species, it is also useful in biomonitoring, especially in regions vulnerable to air pollution. By monitoring the distribution and abundance of this lichen, scientists can assess the level of environmental damage caused by human activities such as industrialization and deforestation.
In conclusion, Calicium subtile Pers. is a refined moss species found in a wide range of habitats, with characteristic tiny clustered cushions, stalked apothecia, and a pale green-grey to yellowish-brown colour. It plays an essential role in biomonitoring, especially in regions threatened by air pollution, and is considered an indicator species of old-growth forests and good air quality.
Light Requirements
Calicium subtile Pers. requires moderate to bright light. An excessive amount of sunlight can scorch the leaves of the plant and cause severe damage. A place near a window or under artificial lights with fluorescent or LED bulbs that provide balanced light spectrum is ideal for the growth of this plant.
Temperature Requirements
The optimum temperature for the growth of Calicium subtile Pers. is between 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C). This plant can tolerate variations in temperatures but extreme heat or cold should be avoided. A sudden temperature change can cause stress and damage the plant.
Soil Requirements
The ideal soil for Calicium subtile Pers. is a well-draining, sandy loam soil that has high organic matter content. The pH of the soil should be between 6 and 7.5, which is slightly acidic to neutral. This plant is highly sensitive to salt so avoid using fertilizers or water that has a high concentration of salt, which can burn the roots.
Cultivation methods
Calicium subtile Pers., commonly known as 'tiny cup lichen', is a small lichen that can grow on various substrates, including soil, rocks, and trees. The plant is not typically grown in gardens, as it thrives in natural environments. However, if you want to cultivate it, you can try growing it on a soil substrate in an open container.
Watering needs
Watering Calicium subtile Pers. varies depending on the substrate on which it grows. If it grows on rocks or tree trunks, it gets enough moisture from the surrounding air. On the other hand, if it grows on soil, it requires frequent watering to maintain a moist substrate. Do not overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Calicium subtile Pers. does not require fertilization as it obtains all its nutrients from the surrounding environment. Fertilizing can be harmful to the plant as it can affect its growth rate and health.
Pruning
Pruning Calicium subtile Pers. is not necessary as it is a self-sustaining plant that does not require much maintenance. If you want to remove it from a surface, gently loosen it with a soft brush or a toothbrush, taking care not to damage the substrate on which it grows.
Propagation of Calicium subtile Pers.
Calicium subtile Pers., commonly known as the delicate cup lichen, is a small, foliose lichen that inhabits the bark of trees in the temperate forests of North America.
Vegatative Propagation
Vegetative propagation of Calicium subtile Pers. is accomplished by fragmentation. The lichen's thalli, or tissues, can be fragmented and spread onto suitable substrates, such as tree bark, to grow and reproduce.
Sexual Propagation
Calicium subtile Pers. reproduces sexually through the production of ascomata. The immature ascomata develop in the thallus tissue and eventually emerge from the surface in the shape of small, cup-like structures. Each ascoma contains ascospores, which are dispersed by wind and can germinate to produce new thalli on appropriate substrates.
Once the ascoma has released its ascospores, it may persist or disappear entirely. Depending on the specific environmental conditions, Calicium subtile Pers. may experience periods of vegetative growth, reproductive growth, or both.
Cultivation Propagation
While Calicium subtile Pers. is not commonly cultivated, it can be grown in the laboratory on suitable substrates. This method typically involves the inoculation of pieces of Calicium subtile Pers. thalli onto culture media, where they grow and can be used for research or conservation purposes.
Disease and Pest Management for Calicium subtile Pers.
Calicium subtile Pers., commonly known as the delicate calicium, is a rare and endangered plant species. As with most plants, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests. Below, we will discuss some of the common issues that might affect this plant and suggest ways to manage them.
Diseases:
Bacterial Leaf Spot: This is a common disease for Calicium subtile. It is characterized by round water-soaked spots on the leaves that eventually turn into brown or black lesions. To manage this disease, remove all infected leaves and avoid overhead watering. Use a copper-based fungicide to prevent further infections.
Fungal Leaf Spot: This disease appears as small, dark spots on the leaves, and may eventually cause the leaves to fall off. To prevent this disease, water the plant at its base, avoid overcrowding, and use a fungicide as needed.
Pests:
Aphids: These are tiny insects that suck the sap from the plants, causing stunted growth and distorted leaves. To prevent aphids, spray the plants with soapy water or use insecticidal soap. You can also introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings to help control the aphid population.
Spider Mites: These pests are difficult to detect due to their small size. They cause yellow or brown spotting on the leaves and can cause the plant to wilt. To prevent spider mites, keep the humidity high around the plant and spray the leaves with water. You can also use insecticidal soap or a miticide to control their population.
In conclusion, Calicium subtile is an important plant species that requires proper care and management to thrive. By following the above recommendations, you can prevent and control diseases and pests, ensuring the health and longevity of this delicate plant.
