Overview:
Enterographa zonata (Korber) Kallsten is a lichenized fungus that belongs to the family Graphidaceae. It is commonly known as the "bark fissure lichen" and is distributed worldwide, inhabiting temperate and tropical regions.
Appearance:
The thallus of Enterographa zonata is crustose, thin, and smooth to slightly wrinkled. The color of thallus can range from pale gray-green to brownish-black. The apothecia (fruiting bodies) are round or elliptical in shape, with a raised rim and a dark reddish-brown disc. The ascospores are fusiform, with hyaline ends and dark central septum, measuring 7-11 × 2–3 ?m.
Uses:
The bark fissure lichen is used in various traditional medicines to treat skin problems, digestive ailments, and respiratory diseases. In addition, E. zonata is used in the production of natural dyes and colors. The lichen has also been studied for its potential use in bioremediation, as it has the ability to absorb heavy metals from contaminated soil.
Origin:
Enterographa zonata is a cosmopolitan species that can be found on bark and rock in both natural and disturbed habitats worldwide. It is commonly found in tropical and temperate regions, including North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. The species prefers to grow on the bark of trees such as oaks, maples, and birches, but can also be found on rocks and man-made substrates such as cement walls and tombstones.
Light Requirements
Enterographa zonata typically grows in shady areas such as the undercanopy of trees or on the shaded side of rocks. It prefers low to moderately low light conditions, as too much direct sunlight can harm the growth of the lichen thallus.
Temperature Requirements
The temperature requirements for Enterographa zonata depend on the specific location in which it is growing. In general, however, it tends to prefer cooler temperatures and can be found in areas such as high elevations or northern latitudes. In warmer areas, it may grow at higher elevations where temperatures are cooler.
Soil Requirements
Enterographa zonata is a lichen, meaning it is not a true plant and does not require soil to grow. Instead, it grows on a variety of substrates, including rocks, soil, and trees. However, it does require a moist environment to properly establish itself. Nutrients from the surrounding environment are acquired through the lichen's ability to photosynthesize and absorb moisture from the air or substrate on which it is growing.
Cultivation Methods
Enterographa zonata (Korber) Kallsten, commonly known as the zoned parchment lichen, requires a substrate to grow on. In the wild, this lichen thrives on rocks, tree trunks, and soil surfaces. To cultivate this lichen, you can mimic its natural habitat by using stones, bark, or soil as a substrate. Select a location with indirect sunlight and good air circulation to encourage growth.
You can transplant small pieces of the lichen onto the chosen substrate and attach them using a non-toxic glue. Mist the substrate with water twice daily to keep it moist until the lichen attaches to the surface. After about six months, the lichen should have established and spread.
Watering Needs
Enterographa zonata (Korber) Kallsten requires consistent moisture to grow. The lichen needs to be kept moist but not excessively wet. In outdoor cultivation, misting the lichen twice daily is sufficient to keep it hydrated. If rainfall is scarce, consider watering the lichen bi-weekly.
When cultivating Enterographa zonata indoors, the lichen should be misted once or twice daily. Maintain a humidity level of 50-70% to prevent the lichen from drying out.
Fertilization
Enterographa zonata (Korber) Kallsten does not require any fertilization. Lichens are composed of fungi and algae that have a unique relationship where the fungi provide nutrients to the algae. The algae, in return, provide carbohydrates through photosynthesis. Therefore, lichens do not require additional feeding since they obtain all their essential nutrients through this symbiotic relationship.
Pruning
Enterographa zonata (Korber) Kallsten does not require pruning since it does not have leaves or stems. However, occasionally removing any dead or discolored patches can improve the lichen's overall appearance and health.
Propagation of Enterographa zonata (Korber) Kallsten
Propagation of Enterographa zonata (Korber) Kallsten is primarily done through vegetative means such as division and tissue culture.
Division
Division is the most common method of propagating Enterographa zonata. The plant can be divided either by cutting the plant into smaller sections or by removing the offsets that grow around the base of the plant. The divided parts are then propagated by planting them in new pots with well-draining soil.
Tissue culture
Tissue culture is another method of propagating Enterographa zonata and is particularly useful for producing large numbers of plants. The process involves growing plant cells or tissues in a laboratory setting on a nutrient-rich medium. Once the tissue has grown, it can be transplanted to soil, where it grows into a full-sized plant.
Disease Management
Enterographa zonata is a relatively disease-resistant plant. However, it is susceptible to a few diseases that can affect its growth and overall health. The common diseases that affect Enterographa zonataare:
- Phomopsis stem canker – This disease is characterized by the appearance of cankers or lesions on the stems of the plant. The infected plant parts should be pruned immediately to prevent the spread of the disease.
- Anthracnose – It is a fungal disease that can cause the leaves of the plant to turn yellow and brown. To manage this disease, ensure that the plant gets adequate water and avoid watering from above.
- Rust – Rust appears as yellow or orange-colored spots on the leaves of the plant. To manage rust, remove and discard the infected leaves and ensure that the plant is well-ventilated to prevent the buildup of humidity.
Pest Management
Enterographa zonata is also susceptible to pest infestations, which can cause severe damage to the plant. The common pests that affect this plant are:
- Scale insects – These insects form a waxy coating on the stems and leaves of the plant, which can cause stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. To manage this pest, apply insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to the affected plant parts.
- Spider mites – These pests cause yellowing and curling of leaves and the appearance of web-like structures on the plant. To manage this pest, wash the plant with a strong stream of water and apply insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
- Mealybugs – These pests are characterized by their white, cotton-like appearance and feed on the plant's sap, causing stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. To manage this pest, remove and discard the infected plant parts and apply a neem oil-based insecticide.
