Overview of Chaenotheca savonica
Chaenotheca savonica also referred to as Rasanen's chaenotheca is a lichen species that belongs to the genus Chaenotheca, family Coniocybaceae. This lichen grows on rocks and tends to inhabit montane areas in alpine tundra zones. It is commonly found on acidic rocks, especially in exposed and sunny conditions.
Common Names of Chaenotheca savonica
There aren't many commonly used names to refer to Chaenotheca savonica, but it is sometimes called Rasanen's chaenotheca in honor of Finnish botanist Toivo Rasanen, who was the first to document it in 1941.
Appearance of Chaenotheca savonica
Chaenotheca savonica is a crustose lichen that has a yellow-greenish color and a smooth texture. It forms small, thin, and tightly adhering patches that are only a few millimeters in diameter. The margins of these patches are often entire to slightly lobed.
The thalli of Chaenotheca savonica have small cups that are lined with hyaline, colorless hairs. These cups contain small, spherical spores that are around 10-12 micrometers in diameter. The surface of the cups is smooth and glossy, making them quite distinct from the rest of the thalli.
Uses of Chaenotheca savonica
Chaenotheca savonica is not known to have any major uses in medicine, food, or industry. However, like many other lichens, it plays an important ecological role in alpine ecosystems. It is a pioneer species that helps to stabilize soil and rocks, paving the way for other plant species to colonize the area.
Overall, Chaenotheca savonica is a fascinating lichen species that is a crucial component of high-altitude ecosystems. Its distinctive appearance and habitat make it an interesting subject of study for lichenologists and botanists alike.
Light Requirements
Chaenotheca savonica grows best in low light conditions such as under shady trees or on the north-facing side of rocks. It can also tolerate brief periods of direct sunlight during the day but prolonged exposure can be detrimental to its growth.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Chaenotheca savonica growth is between 10-20°C. However, it can survive in temperatures as low as -10°C and as high as 25°C. It is known to withstand temperatures as low as -40°C during winters by relying on its tolerance to desiccation.
Soil Requirements
Chaenotheca savonica can grow on various substrates that include rocks, soil, and bark. The pH range of the substrate can minimize or maximize its growth; it prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH (5-7). It prefers substrates with low levels of nitrogen and high levels of phosphorus. Heavy metal contamination is also known to inhibit its growth.
Cultivation methods
Chaenotheca savonica is naturally found in calcareous rocks and limestone cliffs. To cultivate this plant, you need to replicate similar growing conditions in a garden or container.
In a garden, you may have to amend the soil with limestone powder or another form of calcium supplement to make it more alkaline. The plant grows in part shade to full sunlight and should be positioned in a spot with good air circulation.
For container cultivation, use a well-draining soil mix with limestone powder, and ensure the container has drainage holes. Place the container in a spot with ample sunlight and appropriate temperature.
Watering needs
Chaenotheca savonica is a drought-tolerant plant that requires moderate watering. Overwatering may cause root rot and kill the plant.
Water the plant only when the top inch of soil is dry. Deep watering ensures that the water reaches the roots, and excess water drains out of the container or garden bed.
If Chaenotheca savonica grows in a container, be cautious of waterlogging. Check the drainage holes and empty the saucer frequently.
Fertilization
Chaenotheca savonica grows naturally on nutrient-deficient rocks and does not require regular fertilization.
However, if you decide to fertilize, use a low-nitrogen fertilizer, such as a 5-10-10, in early spring before new growth emerges. Apply at half-strength or according to the product's instructions.
Pruning
Chaenotheca savonica requires minimal pruning, but you can remove any dead or damaged stems as they appear. Prune during the plant's dormant period or in late winter before new growth starts.
If desired, you may trim the plant to maintain the desired shape or control spreading. Remove only the top third of the plant, and avoid cutting into the woody stems.
Pruning stimulates new growth, so do not prune Chaenotheca savonica excessively or after its growing season.
Propagation of Chaenotheca savonica
Chaenotheca savonica, commonly known as the Savonian beard lichen, is a lichen that thrives in wetland habitats such as peat bogs and fens. Propagation of this plant can occur through various methods, including vegetative propagation and by spores.
Vegetative propagation
Chaenotheca savonica can undergo vegetative propagation through the production of propagules called soredia. Soredia are small clusters of fungal hyphae that contain algal cells. These propagules can detach from parent thalli and disperse to new locations, eventually growing into new thalli.
Propagation by spores
Chaenotheca savonica also reproduces by producing spores through its apothecia, which are small reproductive structures found on the thalli. The spores can be dispersed by wind or water and can germinate to form new individuals under suitable conditions. However, propagation by spores is less efficient than vegetative propagation, as spores require specific environmental conditions to grow and develop.
To propagate Chaenotheca savonica, it is best to collect soredia from healthy thalli and introduce them to suitable habitats, such as wetlands and peat bogs. Care should be taken to prevent damage to existing thalli and their habitats during propagation.
Disease Management
Chaenotheca savonica is generally considered a hardy plant species, but it may be susceptible to different types of fungal diseases that can cause significant damage. Two of the most common types of fungal diseases that may affect Chaenotheca savonica are leaf spot and stem rot.
Leaf spot is caused by fungal pathogens that attack the leaves, causing brown or black spots that may spread and join together to create larger necrotic lesions. To manage this disease, it is recommended to remove and destroy the affected leaves and to ensure that the plant is not overwatered or watered from above. Fungicides may be necessary if the disease persists.
Stem rot is caused by a fungal pathogen that causes the stem to become soft and eventually collapse which may lead to the death of the plant if unchecked. This disease is typically caused by overwatering and poor soil drainage. To prevent it from occurring, ensure that soil drainage is good and avoid overwatering the plant. If the disease has already taken hold, the infected part should be removed and destroyed, and the plant should be treated with fungicides.
Pest Management
While Chaenotheca savonica is considered relatively pest-resistant, a few pests may occasionally attack the plant with varying degrees of severity. The most common pests that may affect the plant include spider mites and aphids.
Spider mites are tiny creatures that feed on the plant's sap, causing yellowing, spots on the leaves, and ultimately damaging the plant. To manage spider mites, spraying the plant with neem oil or insecticides should be effective in controlling their spread. Another method of controlling spider mites is to introduce natural predators like spiders, ladybugs, or lacewings to the area where the plant is located.
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the plant by sucking its sap. They can be a severe problem if left unchecked, leading to stunted growth and deformation of the plant, as well as the transmission of disease. To manage aphids, spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil should be effective. Another way to control aphids is by introducing natural predators like lady beetles or lacewings to the area. It is crucial to note that aphids may quickly develop resistance to insecticides, so using a combination of chemical and biological control methods is often necessary.
