Origin
Erioderma pedicellatum (Hue) P. M. Jorg. is commonly known as 'Lung-Lichen' or 'Northern Acid Lungwort' and belongs to the Parmeliaceae family. This species is indigenous to North America, particularly the northern wet forests, and is found in regions including Alaska, British Columbia, and the Pacific Northwest.
Common Names
Erioderma pedicellatum goes by several common names including Northern Acid Lungwort and Lung-Lichen due to its lung-like appearance.
Uses
Erioderma pedicellatum is an indicator of high air quality since the species is highly sensitive to air pollution. As such, the lichen has been found to play an important role in monitoring air quality, particularly in areas with high levels of sulfur dioxide.
Additionally, Erioderma pedicellatum has been used medicinally by indigenous communities for treating respiratory ailments, sore throats, and stomach issues.
General Appearance
Erioderma pedicellatum has a distinctive appearance with a fruticose growth pattern that resembles a lung. The lichen's color can vary from gray-green to pale green and its texture ranges from smooth to wrinkled. Its stalks are approximately 3-6 cm long and branch out into flattened lobes measuring 2-4 cm in width.
Growth conditions for Erioderma pedicellatum
Erioderma pedicellatum is a lichenized fungus that usually grows in cool, humid environments in the northern hemisphere. The growth of this species is influenced by several factors, which are discussed below:
Light
Erioderma pedicellatum is known to grow in dimly lit environments. It prefers shaded habitats, such as those found in old-growth forests, where the overstory canopy shades the forest floor. In these environments, the lichen can receive a limited amount of direct sunlight, usually less than 5% of full sunlight.
Temperature
The optimal temperature range for the growth of Erioderma pedicellatum is between 0-20°C. The species is well adapted to cooler climates and can tolerate freezing temperatures. It has been found to grow in subarctic, boreal, and montane forests, where temperatures are below freezing for much of the year.
Soil requirements
Since Erioderma pedicellatum is a lichen, it does not have roots and does not require soil to grow. Instead, it grows on a substrate, which can be either soil or a rock surface. This species is usually associated with the bark of old-growth trees, particularly conifers. The presence of specific chemical compounds in the bark of these trees is believed to be important for the establishment and growth of the lichen.
Cultivation
Erioderma pedicellatum is a lichen that grows on the bark of trees in the old-growth forest. It is best to cultivate this plant in a natural and undisturbed environment. It is not advisable to grow this lichen artificially, as it is a slow-growing species that requires a specific set of environmental conditions to thrive.
Watering Needs
As a lichen, Erioderma pedicellatum absorbs moisture and nutrients directly from the air, so watering is not necessary. However, it does require high humidity to stay healthy and prevent drying out, especially in regions with a dry climate.
Fertilization
Since Erioderma pedicellatum is a lichen, it does not require fertilization. Lichens are unique in that they form a mutualistic relationship between fungi and algae, allowing them to absorb nutrients from the environment without the need for additional fertilization.
Pruning
Erioderma pedicellatum does not require pruning since it grows naturally on the bark of trees, where its growth is not noticeable. However, trees housing this species should not be disturbed or harmed in any way, as they depend on the tree's bark to survive.
Propagation of Erioderma Pedicellatum
Erioderma pedicellatum is a rare epiphytic lichen species found in old-growth forests of Eastern North America. It is mainly propagated through vegetative methods or by using ascospores.
Vegetative Propagation
The vegetative propagation of Erioderma pedicellatum involves the use of thallus fragments from healthy individuals. Thallus is the vegetative part of the lichen that comprises both the fungal and algal components. It usually grows in flat, leaf-like structures that adhere to tree bark.
For propagation purposes, healthy thallus fragments are carefully removed from the parent plant using sterilized scissors. The fragments are then attached to a suitable substrate, such as tree bark, using a non-toxic adhesive. The substrate is then placed in a humid environment with optimal light conditions to encourage new growth.
Over time, the thallus fragments will develop into mature plants, which can be transplanted into their natural habitat. Vegetative propagation ensures that the genetic characteristics of the parent plant are maintained in the offspring, making it an important method for preserving rare and endangered species like Erioderma pedicellatum.
Propagation by Ascospores
Ascospores are sexual spores produced by the fungus component of the lichen. They are located in the fruiting bodies or apothecia, which are small, cup-shaped structures that emerge from the thallus. Propagation by ascospores involves the collection of mature apothecia and the extraction of spores from them.
The extracted spores are then suspended in a sterile nutrient solution and placed on a suitable substrate, such as tree bark or agar. The substrate is then kept in a humid environment with optimal light conditions to encourage spore germination and growth.
Propagation by ascospores can result in the development of genetically diverse offspring, as the spores are produced through sexual reproduction. However, it is a time-consuming process and requires sterile laboratory conditions to avoid contamination.
Disease and Pest Management for Erioderma pedicellatum
Erioderma pedicellatum is a rare and endangered lichen species found in North America. While it is not susceptible to many diseases or pests, it can still fall prey to a few. Here are some common problems that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Fungal infections: Erioderma pedicellatum can be affected by fungal diseases such as lichenicolous fungi. These fungi can cause discoloration and lesions on the lichen, affecting its ability to photosynthesize and grow. To manage fungal infections, remove any affected sections of the lichen and maintain proper growing conditions such as good air circulation and proper humidity.
Pests
Snails and slugs: These gastropods can eat the thallus (body) of the lichen, damaging or killing it. To manage snails and slugs, manually remove them from the growing area and apply a copper-based molluscicide if necessary.
Deer: In areas where deer populations are high, they may graze on Erioderma pedicellatum. Overgrazing can cause significant damage, and in some cases, the plant cannot recover. To manage deer, erect physical barriers around the growing area or use deer repellents or scare tactics to keep them away.
Implementing good growing practices, such as maintaining optimal growing conditions and regularly checking for signs of disease or pests, can go a long way in preventing problems for Erioderma pedicellatum. With proper care, this lichen can thrive and continue to contribute to the biodiversity of North America.
