Overview
Catillaria atropurpurea (Schaerer) Th. Fr. is a lichenized fungus commonly found on rocks or wooden surfaces in damp environments worldwide. This species is also known by various common names like black-purple earth lichen, purple-earth lichen, and black-earth lichen.
Appearance
The thallus of Catillaria atropurpurea is crustose, ranging from black to dark purple. The lobes are narrow and elongated, sometimes extending up to 2-4 cm in length and 0.3-0.5 mm in width, and their edges can be bent or curled. The lower surface is pale brown to black, and granular.
Classification and Taxonomy
Catillaria atropurpurea is a member of the family Catillariaceae, belonging to the Ascomycota division. It was first described by Schaerer and later classified by Thore M. Fries in his Lichenographia Scandinavica series. There are no recognized subspecies, varieties or forms of this species.
Distribution and Habitat
Catillaria atropurpurea is widely distributed throughout North America and Europe. It is most commonly found on rocky surfaces in damp to wet environments such as cliffs, stream banks, and occasionally on top of soil. This species flourishes in polluted environments and is considered an indicator of environmental distress in some parts of the world.
Uses and Benefits
Catillaria atropurpurea does not have any known pharmaceutical, industrial, or economic value. However, it is used by ecologists and environmental scientists as an indicator of air or water pollution. The lichen can accumulate heavy metals and other pollutants from their surrounding environment, making it valuable in biomonitoring programs.
Growth Conditions for Catillaria Atropurpurea
Catillaria atropurpurea, commonly known as the Purple Felt Lichen, is a type of lichen plant with a distinctive purple or violet color. It is commonly found in boreal and subalpine regions and is an important part of many ecosystems. The plant requires a specific set of growth conditions for thriving.
Light Requirements
The Purple Felt Lichen requires a moderate amount of light for photosynthesis, but it cannot tolerate direct sunlight or long exposure to UV radiation. It typically grows in shadier locations, such as under the canopy of trees, in rock crevices, or on vertical surfaces.
Temperature Requirements
The growth of Catillaria atropurpurea is favored in cool and moist environments. It typically grows in regions with moderate to high humidity where temperatures remain below 20°C (68°F) during the growing season. The plant can tolerate mild frost but can be damaged by prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements
The Purple Felt Lichen does not require soils to grow; rather, it relies on surface substrates such as rocks, tree barks, and other plant debris for attachment and support. It can grow on a range of substrates, including acidic rocks, limestone, and tree bark. The plant is sensitive to air pollution and requires a clean environment for healthy growth. It can also absorb nutrients and minerals directly from the atmosphere.
Overall, the Catillaria atropurpurea plant requires moderate to low levels of light, cool and moist environments with temperatures below 20°C (68°F), and a variety of substrates such as rocks and tree bark. The plant is also sensitive to air pollution and requires a clean environment to thrive.
Cultivation methods
Catillaria atropurpurea (Schaerer) Th. Fr. is an epiphytic plant that grows on deciduous trees such as oak, beech, and birch. It easily adapts to different growing environments and can thrive in both shaded and partially shaded areas.
The plant produces irregularly branching stalks that are covered with tiny, tightly packed leaves that can be observed under a hand lens. It's essential to keep the plant in well-ventilated, moist environments that mimic its natural habitat.
Watering Needs
Catillaria atropurpurea (Schaerer) Th. Fr. requires consistent moisture and humidity to grow healthy. Water the plant regularly, taking care not to over-water it, which can lead to root rot. To ensure proper moisture levels, you can use a hygrometer to measure relative humidity.
Avoid watering the plant from above as it can cause water to collect at the base of the branches and lead to rot. Instead, water the plant at the soil level and let it soak in the water for a few hours before draining it off.
Fertilization
Catillaria atropurpurea (Schaerer) Th. Fr. doesn't require frequent feeding, but you can regularly apply a diluted liquid fertilizer during the growing season from spring to summer to ensure nutrients availability. Note that using too much fertilizer can result in growth problems, including discoloration and tip burn.
Avoid applying fertilizer during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
Pruning
Pruning is generally not needed for Catillaria atropurpurea (Schaerer) Th. Fr. However, when the plant becomes too large, you can prune it back to encourage the growth of new branches and to keep it in shape. Use sterilized pruning shears or scissors to avoid damaging the plant.
When pruning, focus on removing dead or diseased branches as they can lead to the spread of infection. You can also remove any branches that are old or unproductive to make way for new growth.
Propagation Methods of Catillaria Atropurpurea
Propagation of Catillaria atropurpurea can be accomplished through both sexual and asexual means.
Sexual Propagation
The plant produces small, black, ellipsoid spores that are dispersed by wind. In order to propagate through sexual means, the spores must land on moist soil or substrate and germinate. The germinated spores will eventually develop into the mature plant.
Asexual Propagation
Asexual propagation of Catillaria atropurpurea is achieved through vegetative reproduction. This can occur in several different ways:
- Fragmentation: The plant can become fragmented due to environmental factors such as wind or physical disturbances. These fragments can then develop into new individuals.
- Division: The plant can be divided into smaller sections, each of which can develop into a new individual.
- Cloning: Cloning of Catillaria atropurpurea can be achieved through tissue culture. This involves taking a small tissue sample from the plant and growing it in a laboratory setting. The resulting tissue culture can then be planted and grown into a new individual.
Disease Management
Catillaria atropurpurea is susceptible to a few diseases that can affect its growth and overall health. The following are some common diseases and ways to manage them:
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes spots on the leaves and can lead to defoliation. To manage, remove infected leaves and ensure good air circulation around the plant.
- Anthracnose: This disease causes dark lesions on the leaves and stems, leading to wilt and dieback. To manage, prune infected branches and avoid overhead watering.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by fungi in poorly-drained soil and can cause wilting and yellowing of the leaves. To manage, ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering. Use a fungicide if necessary.
Pest Management
Catillaria atropurpurea is also vulnerable to a few pests that can cause damage to the plant. The following are some common pests and ways to manage them:
- Aphids: These insects can cause distortions in the leaves and flowers and can also transmit viruses. To manage, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and bronzing of the leaves and produce fine webbing. To manage, wash the plant with water and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Scale: These insects can cause yellowing of the leaves and produce a sticky substance called honeydew. To manage, scrape off the scales with a fingernail or a soft brush and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
