Origin
Diplotomma chlorophaeum (Hepp ex Leighton) Szat. is a lichen species that belongs to the family Roccellaceae. It is commonly found in Europe, Asia, and North America.
Common Names
Diplotomma chlorophaeum is also known as Green Shield Lichen and Pacific Pin Lichen.
Uses
Diplotomma chlorophaeum has no significant known uses for humans. However, it plays an important role in its ecosystem, providing a habitat and a food source for various organisms, such as insects and birds.
General Appearance
Diplotomma chlorophaeum has a greenish-yellow thallus, growing up to 5cm in diameter. The thallus has a distinctive shield shape, with numerous finger-like lobes extending from the center. The upper surface of the lobes is covered with small, pale greenish-yellow to brownish-black granules, known as soralia. The lower surface is smooth and brownish-black, with rhizines that attach the lichen to the substrate. Diplotomma chlorophaeum is often found growing on the bark of coniferous trees in moist, shaded areas. It is tolerant of air pollution, making it a useful bioindicator of environmental quality.
Light Requirements
Diplotomma chlorophaeum is a photosynthetic organism and thus requires sufficient light to grow properly. It is commonly found in habitats with partial to full sunlight exposure. In laboratory conditions, it can grow under low to medium light intensities, but higher light intensities are preferred for optimal growth.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal growth temperature range for Diplotomma chlorophaeum is between 15°C and 25°C. It can still grow within a wider temperature range of 5°C to 30°C but with a slower growth rate. Rapid temperature changes and extreme temperature conditions, either high or low, may hinder or even halt the growth of the organism.
Soil Requirements
Diplotomma chlorophaeum is usually found growing on the bark of trees, rocks, or soil rich is organic matter. It prefers moist, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH between 5 to 6.5. It can also grow in nutrient-poor soils but not in waterlogged soils, which may lead to root rot and mold growth.
Cultivation
Diplotomma Chlorophaeum is a type of lichen commonly found in rocky areas, especially in forests. For cultivation, it is essential to provide the ideal environment that mimics its natural habitat. The substrate on which it grows plays an essential role, and it is recommended that you use a calcareous or siliceous substrate.
Ensure that the substrate you use is free from contaminants that can affect the growth of Diplotomma Chlorophaeum. You can find adequate substrates from lichen supply stores.
Once you have your substrate, place it in an area with low light intensity and high humidity. Diplotomma Chlorophaeum thrives in cool and humid environments, with a temperature range between 10-20°C.
Watering needs
Proper watering is crucial in the cultivation of Diplotomma Chlorophaeum. Since they thrive in humid conditions, ensure that the substrate remains moist at all times. However, avoid excessive moisture as it can lead to rot and other fungal infections that can stunt the growth of your plant.
Watering should be done consistently but carefully, so as not to damage the leaves or the substrate. Pay close attention to the moisture levels daily.
Fertilization
Diplotomma Chlorophaeum is a unique plant that derives its nutrients from the surrounding air and the substrate on which it grows. It doesn't require any fertilization or additional nutrients. In fact, adding fertilizers can harm the plant and affect its growth.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Diplotomma Chlorophaeum as it doesn't have any significant stems or branches. However, you can remove any debris that accumulates around the plant, as they can affect its growth and development.
Also, ensure that the plant is not in contact with other plants, as this can lead to the spread of pests and diseases.
Lastly, avoid touching the leaves or the thallus as they are delicate and can be easily damaged.
Propagation of Diplotomma chlorophaeum
Diplotomma chlorophaeum can be propagated by several methods. Here are some:
Vegetative propagation
Vegetative propagation involves the use of plant parts to produce new plants. In Diplotomma chlorophaeum, the vegetative propagation method is done through fragmentation. This is when a portion of the thallus is broken off and used to start a new colony. This method is most commonly used in cultivating lichens as it preserves the genotype of the parent plant. Once the fragment is taken, it is placed on an appropriate substrate and kept in a moist environment until it establishes roots. Once the new thallus has established, it can be transplanted to a new location.
Sexual propagation
Sexual propagation involves the use of spores to produce new individuals. In Diplotomma chlorophaeum, this method is challenging as the spore-producing structures are small and almost hidden within the thallus. The production of spores in Diplotomma chlorophaeum is also not very prolific. However, the spores produced can be used to produce new colonies given the right conditions. Once spores are produced, they are dispersed by wind or water and will settle onto suitable substrates. The spores will germinate and grow into a new lichen thallus.
Cultural propagation
Cultural propagation involves creating the necessary conditions for the plant to propagate itself. In Diplotomma chlorophaeum, cultural propagation is done through the manipulation of temperature, moisture, and light. This method is mostly used in commercial cultivation because it can increase the rate of lichen growth and spore production significantly. Culturing Diplotomma chlorophaeum involves placing the lichen thallus in an environment where optimal temperatures, lighting, and moisture levels are maintained. This method is challenging as it requires a precise understanding of the plant's growth and development requirements.
Disease management
Diplotomma chlorophaeum is a relatively resilient plant but can fall prey to certain diseases. One of the most common diseases is fungal growth. The fungus appears as powdery mildew on the leaves and stems. To manage fungal growth, it is crucial to keep the plant dry, reduce humidity and avoid overcrowding the plant. Additionally, a fungicide can be used to prevent further growth of the fungus.
Another disease that can plague Diplotomma chlorophaeum is root rot. Root rot occurs when the soil does not drain well, causing the roots to become soggy. Over-irrigation can also lead to root rot. To manage root rot, it is essential to ensure that the soil drains well and plant in appropriate soil conditions. Over-watering should be avoided, and the plant should not be left in standing water.
Pest management
Mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects are the most common pests that can affect Lycianthes rantonnetii. These pests attack the plant by sucking sap, leading to stunted growth and yellowing or curling of the leaves. To manage these pests, it is crucial to regularly inspect the plant. Pests can be removed through the use of insecticidal soap or neem oil. Insecticidal spray should be avoided as it can affect the plant adversely.
Aphids are another pest that can attack this plant. Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can cause the leaves to curl. Aphids can be removed manually by spraying the plant with a jet of water or through the use of insecticidal soap. Insecticidal sprays should be used as a last resort, given their potential to harm beneficial insects and other wildlife.
Regular inspection and hygiene measures such as the removal of dead leaves and stems can help reduce the incidence of pest and disease attacks. It is also essential to avoid over-fertilizing the plant, as doing so can attract pests and make the plant more susceptible to disease.
