Overview: Candelariella submexicana de Lesd.
Candelariella submexicana de Lesd is a lichen species that belongs to the family Candelariaceae. It is commonly found in the northwestern part of North America, including British Columbia, Alaska, and California. It is known to inhabit moist and shady areas in the forests, on rocks, and on the bark of trees.
Appearance
Candelariella submexicana de Lesd is small and crustose in form, growing in compact rosettes that are about 1-2 cm in diameter. The thallus is pale grey to yellowish in color and has a smooth surface texture. The apothecia (reproductive structures) are about 0.4-0.6 mm in diameter, with a slightly raised disc and a pale yellow-orange margin. The color of the apothecia darkens as it matures, eventually becoming dark brown or black.
Common Names
The common name for Candelariella submexicana de Lesd is Mexican Candelariella, though it is also known as Candélarie mexicaine in French.
Uses
Because of its unique appearance, Candelariella submexicana de Lesd is often used by scientists as a model organism for studying lichens. However, it has no known traditional uses among Indigenous communities or in Western herbalism. As with all lichens, caution should be taken when handling or consuming as some species can be toxic.
Light Requirements
Candelariella submexicana de Lesd. is a species of lichen that prefers moderate to high light conditions. It typically grows in areas with partial to full sun exposure. However, it can also tolerate shaded conditions, making it versatile enough for both open and closed habitats.
Temperature Requirements
Temperature is another critical factor in the growth of Candelariella submexicana de Lesd. This species thrives in environments with cool to moderate temperatures ranging between 10 to 20°C. It can survive in temperatures above this range, but growth rates may be slower.
Soil Requirements
As a lichen species, Candelariella submexicana de Lesd. does not have strict soil requirements. However, it requires a substrate that is stable and can hold moisture. Therefore, it can grow on different substates, including soil, rocks, and even tree bark. Nevertheless, the substrate should have moderate amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium for optimal growth.
Cultivation Methods
Candelariella submexicana de Lesd. is a lichen species that grows in rocky habitats, on soil, or on other lichens. Therefore, it can be grown indoors or outdoors in well-draining containers or on rocks or bark. Growing this plant in its natural habitat is also possible, but it requires a specific environment.
Watering Needs
Candelariella submexicana de Lesd. is a drought-tolerant plant, and over-watering can cause damage and even death. Water the plant only when the soil or substrate is dry to the touch. When growing the plant indoors, ensure that the pot or container has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. When cultivating the plant in its natural habitat, water it only during rain or when the humidity is low.
Fertilization
Candelariella submexicana de Lesd. does not require fertilization. It obtains its nutrients from the atmosphere and through photosynthesis. Therefore, avoid using any fertilizer or plant supplements when cultivating the plant. Over-fertilizing can damage or kill the lichen.
Pruning
Candelariella submexicana de Lesd. does not require pruning. It grows slowly and steadily, and any disturbance can damage it. However, if necessary, remove any dead, damaged, or diseased parts of the plant gently. Avoid pulling or breaking the lichen as much as possible because it may damage the holdfasts and affect the plant's growth and survival.
Propagation Methods of Candelariella submexicana de Lesd.
Candelariella submexicana de Lesd. is a lichen species that can be propagated by two primary methods: fragmentation and spore dispersal.
Fragmentation
Fragmentation, also known as vegetative propagation, is a common form of asexual reproduction in lichen species like Candelariella submexicana de Lesd. This method involves the detachment and fragmentation of a portion of the thallus, which is the main body of the lichen. The fragments can then re-establish themselves in suitable conditions and grow into new individuals. Fragmentation occurs naturally in lichens due to environmental factors such as wind, water, and physical disturbance.
To propagate Candelariella submexicana de Lesd. through fragmentation, carefully detaching a portion of the thallus is necessary. Once detached, the fragment should be placed in a suitable growing medium or environment that supports lichen growth. It is important to ensure that the environment is adequately moist and that the lichen receives appropriate light and temperature conditions to allow successful growth.
Spore Dispersal
Spore dispersal is the second method of propagation for Candelariella submexicana de Lesd. This method involves the release of reproductive spores from the lichen, which can then grow into new individuals if they settle in suitable environments.
To propagate via spore dispersal, it is necessary to collect mature thalli from the parent lichen species and expose them to appropriate environmental conditions that promote spore release. Once released, the spores can be dispersed to suitable growing environments where they can establish themselves. Like fragmentation, successful spore germination and establishment require adequate moisture levels, appropriate light, and temperature conditions.
Disease and Pest Management for Candelariella submexicana de Lesd.
Candelariella submexicana de Lesd., commonly known as lichen, is a hardy species that is known to resist various diseases and pests. However, like any other plant, it is still vulnerable to some specific pests and diseases that can cause some damages to the plant's growth and overall health.
Common Diseases Affecting Candelariella submexicana de Lesd.
The most common disease affecting Candelariella submexicana de Lesd. is lichen planus. This disease causes the lichen to have small bumps or blisters, leading to the appearance of scars. To manage this disease, maintain good plant health by ensuring you provide adequate nutrition, proper watering, and sufficient light. You may also consider using fungicides, such as azoxystrobin, to control the spread of the disease.
Bacterial infections also affect the plant, causing browning or yellowing of the leaves. In severe cases, the leaves may start falling off, leading to stunted growth. To manage bacterial infections, remove the infected parts of the plant and apply a copper fungicide to prevent reinfection. You may also maintain proper ventilation to improve airflow around the plant, which in turn helps prevent reinfection.
Common Pests Affecting Candelariella submexicana de Lesd.
Spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs are the most common pests affecting the plant. These pests feed on the leaves, interrupting the plant's normal growth pattern and eventually causing significant damage to the plant if not controlled.
To manage pest infestation, you can use insecticides, such as neem oil, to control the spread of pest infestation. You may also opt to use biocontrol agents such as ladybugs, praying mantis, or lacewings as they are an eco-friendly option for managing pest infestation. Other ways of controlling pests include maintaining plant hygiene, regularly cleaning the leaves, and avoiding overwatering the plant.
In conclusion, Candelariella submexicana de Lesd. is a hardy plant that is resistant to many diseases and pests. However, it is still susceptible to some diseases and pests that need proper attention for the plant's optimal growth. Therefore, proper management of pests and diseases is essential for the health of the plant.
