Origin
Candelariella plumbea Poelt & Vezda, commonly known as lead-grey candle lichen, is a species of lichen found in the arctic and alpine regions of North America and Europe.
Common Names
Aside from lead-grey candle lichen, Candelariella plumbea is also known as the lead candle lichen or grey matchstick lichen.
Uses
While Candelariella plumbea is not used for any medicinal purposes, it is known to be an indicator species for air pollution and is used in biomonitoring studies to assess air quality in urban and industrial areas.
General Appearance
Candelariella plumbea typically appears as small, greyish or bluish-greyish tufts or thin crusts on rocks and soil surfaces, ranging from 1-5 cm in diameter. It has a powdery, finely granular surface and produces erect, greyish stalks or offsets called isidia, which are less than 1 mm in diameter. These isidia contain fragments of the thallus, which then detach and disperse to form new lichen colonies. The thallus itself is generally not visible, as it is buried deep in the substrate. Overall, Candelariella plumbea is a small and unobtrusive lichen species that is easily overlooked but plays an important role in environmental monitoring.
Light Requirements
Candelariella plumbea usually grows in open habitats, where it can receive plenty of sunlight.
This species can tolerate partial shade, but too much shade can hinder growth and development.
Temperature Requirements
Candelariella plumbea can survive in a range of temperatures from moderate to low.
It can tolerate both dry and cold weather conditions and so can be found in regions with a cold climate, including Arctic and alpine areas.
Soil Requirements
Candelariella plumbea tends to grow on a variety of substrates, including soil, moss, and rocks.
It prefers well-drained soils with low calcium concentrations. This species usually does not need a special soil-specific requirement for growth; however, the soil pH should be moderately acidic to neutral (pH 5.2-7.0).
Cultivation Methods
The plant Candelariella plumbea Poelt & Vezda doesn't require much attention when it comes to cultivation. It can grow in all types of soil, whether sandy, loamy, or rocky. However, the soil must be well-drained and rich in organic matter. The plant prefers full sunlight but can grow in partially shaded areas as well. Candelariella plumbea Poelt & Vezda can be propagated through seeds and cuttings. Sow the seeds in well-drained soil and keep them moist until they germinate. Cuttings can be planted in pots with potting soil, and the soil must be consistently moist to aid growth.
Watering Needs
Candelariella plumbea Poelt & Vezda doesn't require frequent watering as it can survive drought conditions. Water the plant only when the soil is dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which affects the growth of the plant. During periods of drought, ensure that the plant receives moderate watering to avoid drying out. Water the plant slowly and deeply to allow proper absorption.
Fertilization
Candelariella plumbea Poelt & Vezda doesn't require heavy fertilization. However, the plant can benefit from an annual light application of balanced fertilizer during spring. Use a slow-release fertilizer, and mix it with the soil before planting. Once the plant establishes, you can use a liquid fertilizer, diluted in water, every four weeks until the end of summer. Avoid using too much fertilizer as it can lead to burnt leaves and stunted growth.
Pruning
Candelariella plumbea Poelt & Vezda doesn't require regular pruning. However, it's best to trim back any damaged or dead branches during the spring to promote healthy growth. Trimming will also allow sunlight to reach lower parts of the plant, encouraging growth and blooming. However, avoid pruning excessively as it can lead to bud loss and stunted growth. Trim back only what's necessary.
Propagation of Candelariella plumbea Poelt & Vezda
Candelariella plumbea Poelt & Vezda, commonly known as Lead Candelariella, is a lichen species that is predominantly found in the northern hemisphere. Propagation of this lichen is mainly achieved through the following methods:
Vegetative propagation
The vegetative propagation of Candelariella plumbea Poelt & Vezda is accomplished by using a fungal strain called mycobiont. The mycobiont consists of various fungal species belonging to the genus Candelariella. Vegetative propagation can occur through fragmentation of the lichen thallus, which involves breaking off a small portion of the lichen and attaching it to a suitable substrate. Fragmentation can either be natural or induced artificially by physical means such as cutting.
Asexual propagation
Candelariella plumbea Poelt & Vezda also engage in asexual propagation through the formation of small, circular, disk-like structures called soredia. Soredia are composed of both fungal and algal cells and are capable of germinating on a suitable substrate to form a new individual lichen. The soredia are usually produced on the upper surface of the thallus and tend to disperse through wind or water.
Sexual propagation
The sexual propagation of Candelariella plumbea Poelt & Vezda is achieved when the reproductive structures known as apothecia are formed. Apothecia produce the ascospores, which are reproductive units capable of germinating on a suitable substrate to form a new individual lichen. Sexual propagation usually occurs when the lichen is well-established and under favorable environmental conditions.
Disease and Pest Management for Candelariella plumbea Poelt & Vezda
Candelariella plumbea Poelt & Vezda is a lichen species that grows on rocks, stones, and soil in open areas. Although they are generally resistant to pests and diseases, they may still be affected by some common plant diseases and pests such as:
1. Lichen Moth Caterpillars
Lichen moth caterpillars are the primary pests affecting Candelariella plumbea. These caterpillars feed on the lichen thalli, leading to a decline in the plant's health. To manage these pests, you can manually remove the caterpillars from the plant, discard them, or use chemical control methods with eco-friendly insecticides.
2. Flavoparmelia Caperata
Flavoparmelia caperata is a lichen disease that affects Candelariella plumbea. This disease manifests in yellow or greenish spots on the lichen thallus. These spots then develop into larger patches, causing the lichen's structural integrity to weaken. The most effective method of managing this disease is to remove and dispose of the affected parts of the lichen thallus.
3. Environmental Stress
Candelariella plumbea is susceptible to environmental stress factors such as pollution, acid rain, and drought. To manage these factors, provide optimal growing conditions for the plant. Keep it in an area where it receives full sunlight, cool temperatures, and moderate moisture. You can also provide additional nutrients to improve the plant's resilience to environmental stress.
4. Herbivores
In some cases, Candelariella plumbea may be affected by herbivores such as rabbits, deer, and small rodents. These animals may feed on the lichen thalli, leading to the plant's disintegration. To manage these pests, erect a physical barrier around the plant or introduce natural predators such as snakes or birds.
In conclusion, proper care, including adequate moisture, light, and nutrients, is needed to ensure the health and resilience of Candelariella plumbea. Regular monitoring and prompt action are the keys to preventing pest and disease infestations and ensuring the plant thrives.
