Overview
Candelina submexicana (de Lesd.) Poelt is a crustose lichen species belonging to the family Teloschistaceae. It is commonly found in high altitude regions of Mexico and Central America. This plant species has a vibrant yellow thallus that stands out from its surroundings.
Common Names
Candelina submexicana is commonly referred to as Yellow button lichen due to its yellow button-like appearance. It is also known as Riccia, a name it shares with several other lichen species.
Description
Candelina submexicana forms seemingly solitary yellow button-like structures. The thallus of the plant is smooth and bright yellow, measuring up to 1 cm in diameter. The lobes of the thallus are often irregular and overlap each other. The apothecia, which are the reproductive structures of the plant, are typically found in the center of the thallus. These structures are dark brown to black and measure between 0.3 - 0.5 mm in diameter. The entire plant is thin and crustose, which makes it adhere closely to the substrates where it thrives.
Uses
Candelina submexicana plays an essential ecological role in its natural habitat. It thrives in high altitude regions where it contributes to nutrient cycling and soil stability. It is also used as a bioindicator of air quality due to its sensitivity to air pollutants. In some regions, it is used for medicinal purposes, where it is believed to have antibacterial properties.
Light Requirements
Candelina submexicana is a plant that prefers partial shade to bright, indirect light. It is not recommended to expose this plant to direct sunlight as it can burn its leaves and cause damage. The plant should ideally receive at least 4-6 hours of bright, indirect light every day.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the growth of Candelina submexicana is between 20°C to 25°C. It is important to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the day to avoid any sudden changes that can stress the plant. This plant is sensitive to cold temperatures and should be protected from freezing conditions.
Soil Requirements
Candelina submexicana thrives in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal pH range for the growth of this plant is between 6.0 to 7.5. It is recommended to use a potting mix that has adequate drainage and is enriched with compost or other organic matter. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged to avoid root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Candelina submexicana is a low-growing lichen that can grow on rocks, soil, and other substrates. It is a hardy species that requires little maintenance and can adapt to various conditions. To cultivate Candelina submexicana, you can collect a few pieces from the wild and transfer them to a suitable substrate. You can use rocks, soil, or other materials that are similar to its natural habitat. You can also use a mixture of these materials to create a more diverse environment. Once you have transferred the lichen to the substrate, ensure that it is kept moist and in a shaded area. The lichen will take some time to establish itself, so avoid moving it around too much.Watering Needs
Candelina submexicana is a lichen that can tolerate dry conditions, but it still requires some moisture to thrive. If you are cultivating this lichen, ensure that the environment is kept moist but not wet. The best way to water Candelina submexicana is through misting. Use a spray bottle to mist the lichen and its substrate lightly. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to the growth of other organisms that can harm the lichen.Fertilization
Candelina submexicana does not require fertilization. In fact, it is best to avoid fertilizing this lichen, as it can harm it. If you are cultivating Candelina submexicana on soil, make sure that the soil is nutrient-poor. This will encourage the growth of the lichen while discouraging the growth of other plants.Pruning
Candelina submexicana does not require pruning. In fact, pruning can harm this lichen and lead to its death. If you notice any dead or yellowing parts of the lichen, you can gently remove them with a soft brush or a pair of tweezers. Avoid pulling on the lichen, as this can cause further damage. Overall, Candelina submexicana is a hardy lichen that requires little maintenance. By providing it with a suitable substrate and keeping it moist and shaded, you can successfully cultivate this species. Avoid fertilizing and pruning, and focus on providing a stable environment for the lichen to thrive.Propagation of Candelina Submexicana
Candelina submexicana is a species of lichen that can be propagated through various methods. The most common propagation method is through the use of vegetative fragments or thalli.
Vegetative Propagation
In vegetative propagation, the fragments of thalli are collected from healthy and disease-free mother plants. These fragments are then attached to natural or artificial substrates like rocks, bark, and wood using glue or tie-wires. Vegetative propagation is particularly useful in the mass production of Candelina submexicana because it ensures consistent genetic and biochemical composition among the new plants.
Asexual Propagation
Asexual propagation is another method used in propagating Candelina submexicana. In this method, specialized structures known as soredia are detached from the thalli and also attached to suitable substrates. Soredia are small, dust-like particles that contain fungal hyphae and algal cells. Once they attach to the substrates, they develop into new individuals that are genetically identical to the mother plant. Asexual propagation is easy and rapid, but it may not be suitable for the long-term conservation of genetic diversity.
Sexual Propagation
Candelina submexicana can also be propagated sexually through the production of spores. This method involves the collection of mature fruiting bodies and the extraction of spores. The spores are then sown on agar or soil media that has all the nutrients required for their growth. In suitable environmental conditions, the spores germinate and develop into new individuals. Sexual propagation is useful for the preservation of genetic diversity, but it requires more intensive care and attention.
When propagated using any of the methods described above, Candelina submexicana grows best in cool, shaded areas that are well-ventilated and humid. Additionally, the substrates used should be free from toxins and pollutants that can harm the plants.
Disease and Pest Management for Candelina submexicana
Candelina submexicana (de Lesd.) Poelt, commonly known as Mexican candelina, is a small, crustose lichen found on rocks, soil, and bark in rocky habitats. This plant can be affected by various pests and diseases that can affect its growth and survival. Therefore, it's important to manage these pests and diseases to ensure the health of Candelina submexicana.
Common Pests
The most common pests that affect Candelina submexicana are mites and scale insects. Mites are tiny, spider-like creatures that feed on the plant's sap, causing damage to the leaves and stems. Scale insects, on the other hand, are small, flattened, oval-shaped insects that attach themselves to the plant's leaves and stems, feeding on its juices. Both pests can cause wilting, yellowing of leaves, and stunted growth in Candelina submexicana.
Pest Management
To manage mites and scale insects, it's important to maintain good plant hygiene by removing dead or infected plant parts. Use a strong jet of water to wash off insects or apply insecticides that are labeled safe for use on lichens. Alternatively, natural predators like lady beetles, lacewings, and parasitic wasps can be released to control pest populations.
Common Diseases
Candelina submexicana can be affected by various diseases, including fungal infections, bacterial diseases, and viral infections. Fungal infections can cause leaf spots, blights, and cankers, while bacterial diseases can cause wilting and rotting of the plant's stem. Viral infections can cause stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and deformation of the plant's tissue.
Disease Management
To manage fungal and bacterial diseases, it's important to remove all infected plant parts and dispose of them properly to prevent the spread of the disease. Use fungicides or bactericides that are labeled safe for use on lichens. For viral infections, there are no chemical treatments available, so the best strategy is to remove and destroy all infected plants to prevent the spread of the virus.
In conclusion, managing pests and diseases is crucial in ensuring the health of Candelina submexicana. Proper plant hygiene, use of natural predators, and the application of chemical treatments can help control pest populations, while removing infected plant parts and using appropriate fungicides or bactericides can help manage diseases.
