Origin and Common Names
Diploschistes bisporus (Bagl.) J. Steiner, commonly known as the Double-whorled Lichen, is a species of lichen found in various parts of the world. It belongs to the family Roccellaceae and was first described in 1954 by Josef Steiner. The plant is declared to be endangered in different regions due to habitat loss and vandalism.
Appearance
The Double-whorled Lichen typically grows on rocks, bark, or soil in thin, spreading crusts. The plant's thallus (the lichen's vegetative body) is variable in color, ranging from yellow-green or gray to brownish-yellow, and is often dotted with white blobs. The lobes and thallus margins are often curved or twisted, creating an intentionally abnormal look. It reproduces through the production of blue-green soredia, which are powdery granules created by lichen fungi and algae.
Uses
Despite being an endangered species, the Double-whorled Lichen has been used in traditional medicine for many centuries. It is employed to treat various ailments such as skin rashes, headaches, and toothaches. A few isolated compounds found in the plant have potential pharmaceutical applications as antibiotics, antioxidants, anti-tumor agents, and anti-inflammatory substances. Diploschistes bisporus also plays a crucial role in maintaining ecosystems by improving soil health through nutrient cycling. It is considered a critical indicator of environmental and ecosystem health, and its widespread loss can have far-reaching impacts on biodiversity.
Light Conditions
Diploschistes bisporus is a lichenized fungus that is highly adapted to growing in bright light conditions. The species prefers open and sunny habitats such as arid rocky terrain, open grasslands, and desert plains with intense sunlight. In shaded areas, its growth is limited and may lead to the decline of the thallus. Therefore, Diploschistes bisporus requires a lot of sunlight to thrive.
Temperature Requirements
Diploschistes bisporus grows well in warm and hot conditions. The species is a common resident of arid and semi-arid environments where temperatures can be high during the day and drop significantly at night. Optimum growth for this species ranges from 20°C to 30°C. Temperatures beyond this range may slow down growth and even halt the metabolic processes of this fungus.
Soil Requirements
Diploschistes bisporus is a lichenized fungus that thrives in a wide range of soil types, from sandy to rocky soils. The species grows well on soils that have a slightly acidic to alkaline pH range. It prefers soils that are well-drained and not saturated with water for long periods. In addition, Diploschistes bisporus grows better in soils that are rich in minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium.
Cultivation Methods
Diploschistes bisporus, commonly known as the two-spored lichen, is a slow-growing plant that requires minimal care. This lichen can be grown indoors or outdoors, but it requires a specific growing environment to thrive. Outdoor cultivation is best in areas with cool temperatures and high amounts of rainfall.
Indoors, D. bisporus can be grown in a terrarium or on a piece of bark or rock. The lichen should be placed in a spot that receives partial sunlight or indirect light, and the temperature should be kept between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
Watering Needs
D. bisporus is a hardy plant that requires very little watering. The lichen should be misted occasionally with a spray bottle to maintain moisture levels, but it should not be saturated. Overwatering can cause the lichen to rot or develop fungal infections.
Fertilization
Since lichens are symbiotic organisms, they obtain all the nutrients they need from the photosynthetic partner or from airborne particulates. Fertilizing D. bisporus is not necessary and can even be harmful. Excessive exposure to certain nutrients such as nitrogen can cause them to release their algae partner and eventually die off. The primary requirement is indirect sunlight to photosynthesize and grow, and misting the lichen occasionally to maintain moisture levels.
Pruning
Pruning lichens is a delicate process because they do not have roots or stems like other plants. Rather, trimming or pruning D. bisporus is a matter of removing dead or damaged portions of the lichen to promote growth. This can be done with scissors or a sharp knife, but the process should be performed with care so as not to damage the lichen's delicate structure.
Propagation of Diploschistes bisporus
Diploschistes bisporus (Bagl.) J. Steiner can be propagated by two methods, namely:
1. Sexual propagation
Sexual propagation is done using the spores produced by the plant. The spores are generally light green and can be collected easily using a clean container or paper bag. The collected spores can then be transferred to an appropriate growth medium, such as soil or agar, which is kept moist and in indirect light. The spores will then germinate and produce new plants over time. However, this method of propagation is time-consuming and requires specialized equipment.
2. Vegetative propagation
Vegetative propagation involves taking cuttings or dividing the plant to produce new individuals. Cuttings can be taken from established plants and then rooted in a suitable growing medium. The cuttings should be taken from areas of the plant that show vigorous growth and should be kept moist and in indirect light until they root. Dividing the plant involves separating the plant into smaller sections and planting them as independent individuals. This method is relatively easy and can be done without much investment in specialized equipment.
It is important to note that Diploschistes bisporus has a slow growth rate and can take several years to mature. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid over-harvesting and to provide the plant with proper care to ensure its continued growth and propagation.
Disease Management
Diploschistes bisporus is susceptible to several fungal diseases, including:
- Phoma: This fungal disease is characterized by yellowing leaves and the appearance of circular spots. Effective management options include pruning infected plant parts and applying copper-based fungicides to prevent further spread.
- Anthracnose: This disease causes dark sunken lesions on the leaves of the plant. Management options include pruning the infected areas, applying fungicides containing copper, and ensuring adequate air circulation around the plant.
- Venturia: This fungal disease is characterized by black spots on the leaves and fruits of the plant. Management options include pruning the affected areas, applying copper-based fungicides, and avoiding overhead watering to limit the spread of the disease.
To reduce the risk of disease, it is important to ensure that the plant is grown in well-drained soil, receives adequate sunlight, and is watered appropriately.
Pest Management
Diploschistes bisporus can be affected by several pests, including:
- Aphids: These small insects can cause significant damage to the plant by sucking sap and causing the leaves to wilt. Effective management options include pruning heavily infested plant parts and applying insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Scale insects: These insects are characterized by small, hard growths on the leaves and stems of the plant. Infestations can be managed by pruning the affected areas, applying insecticidal soap or neem oil, and using rubbing alcohol to remove the scales.
- Spider mites: These microscopic pests can cause yellowing leaves and webbing on the plant. Management options include pruning heavily infested plant parts, ensuring adequate humidity levels, and applying insecticidal soap or neem oil.
To reduce the risk of pest infestations, it is important to regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation and to ensure that the plant is growing under appropriate environmental conditions.
