Graphis subelegans Nyl.
Graphis subelegans, also known as Elegant Graphis or Fine-lined Graphis, is a species of lichen belonging to the family Graphidaceae. It was first described by French botanist and lichenologist William Nylander in 1863.
Origin and Distribution
Graphis subelegans is widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. It is commonly found on the bark of trees in humid forests, particularly in areas with high air pollution. It is especially common in the neotropics and some parts of the African continent, but can also be found in other regions such as Asia, Australia, and the Pacific islands.
Appearance and Characteristics
Graphis subelegans exhibits a conspicuous, foliose to squamulose thallus, which measures up to 10 cm in diameter. The thalli are usually grayish-brown to brownish-black in color, and have a smooth to slightly wrinkled surface. They are made up of clustered or scattered squamules, which are convex to concave, and range from 0.5-3.0 mm in size. The upper surface of the thallus is black, while the lower surface is often light-colored or whitish.
This lichen produces large apothecia, which are disk-shaped structures that can reach up to 10 mm in diameter. The apothecia are mostly immersed in the thallus, and have a hairy margin that may be black or brown in color. The hymenium or fertile layer of the apothecium is usually black, with a slightly raised, disc-like shape.
Uses
Graphis subelegans, like most lichens, has no known economic or medicinal value. However, it is an important indicator species for measuring air quality and pollution levels. Because lichens are highly sensitive to environmental stressors, they have been used for decades as bioindicators for monitoring air pollution and climate change. In addition, lichens like Graphis subelegans also play an important role in the ecology of forests, where they serve as a source of food and habitat for a variety of organisms, including insects, birds, and mammals.
Light requirements
The plant Graphis subelegans Nyl. requires moderate to bright light conditions. While it can tolerate some levels of shade, it prefers to be in an environment with plenty of sunlight. It is essential to keep the plant away from direct sunlight as it can quickly scorch the leaves and cause damage to the plant.
Temperature requirements
The optimal temperature range for Graphis subelegans Nyl. is between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. It can tolerate lower temperatures, but prolonged exposure to cold conditions can damage the plant. It is essential to keep the plant away from cold drafts and air conditioning vents.
Soil requirements
Graphis subelegans Nyl. prefers well-drained, loose soil. The soil should be slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. It is essential to avoid water-logged soil as it can cause root rot and damage the plant. Adding organic matter to the soil can help improve drainage and nutrient retention.
Cultivation of Graphis subelegans Nyl.
Graphis subelegans Nyl. is a lichen species commonly found in tropical or subtropical regions, particularly in humid forests. It grows on the bark of trees, mainly on the trunk or branches.
The best way to cultivate Graphis subelegans Nyl. is to mimic its natural habitat. You can do this by providing a suitable tree bark substrate for the lichen to grow. The bark should be rough and porous, with varying degrees of moisture retention. Avoid smooth bark surfaces, as they are less likely to support lichen growth.
Watering needs of Graphis subelegans Nyl.
Graphis subelegans Nyl. thrives in a moist environment, but it does not tolerate waterlogging or overly wet substrates. To water the lichen, gently mist the bark with distilled water or rainwater collected in a clean container. Let the water evaporate naturally rather than wiping it off.
If the bark starts to dry out, you may need to increase the frequency of watering. On the other hand, if the bark is consistently wet, you should reduce the frequency of watering or improve the drainage of the container.
Fertilization of Graphis subelegans Nyl.
As a lichen, Graphis subelegans Nyl. derives its nutrients from the air, rainwater, and sunlight; hence, it does not require fertilization. Applying fertilizers, even those labeled for use on epiphytic plants, will harm the lichen by disrupting its delicate symbiosis with algae or cyanobacteria. Fertilizers may also alter the pH of the bark and create an unsuitable environment for lichen growth.
Pruning of Graphis subelegans Nyl.
Graphis subelegans Nyl. does not require pruning, as it has no leaves, stems, or flowers. However, you may need to remove dead or damaged bark from the container to prevent mold or pest infestation. To do this, use a sharp and sterile knife or scissors to cut away the affected portions of the bark. Be careful not to damage the healthy bark or the lichen thallus growing on it.
Propagation of Graphis subelegans Nyl.
Graphis subelegans Nyl. is a lichenized fungus that grows on the bark of tropical trees. It is primarily found in Central and South America. Propagation of this species can be challenging, as it requires specific environmental conditions and specialized techniques.
Method 1: Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation of Graphis subelegans Nyl. can be achieved through the use of specialized techniques like micropropagation, where plant tissue is cultured in vitro under controlled conditions. However, this method has limited success in the case of lichenized fungi, as they have a symbiotic relationship with their algal partner.
Method 2: Spore Propagation
Spore propagation is the most common and successful method for propagating Graphis subelegans Nyl. This method involves the collection, isolation, and cultivation of lichen spores. The spores can be collected from mature lichen thalli and sown onto an appropriate substrate under controlled conditions.
The substrate for spore germination should have specific nutrient requirements and environmental conditions that mimic the natural habitat of the lichen. After germination, the young lichens are grown in vitro until they mature enough to be transplanted onto the host tree.
Method 3: Transplantation
Graphis subelegans Nyl. can also be propagated through transplantation of mature lichen thalli onto a suitable host tree. The thalli should be collected from healthy and mature lichen colonies and transplanted onto bark of the host tree at an appropriate time to ensure the best chances of survival.
In conclusion, spore propagation is the most common and successful method of propagating Graphis subelegans Nyl. However, transplantation of mature thalli can also be successful when conducted under the right environmental conditions.
Disease and Pest Management for Graphis subelegans Nyl.
Graphis subelegans Nyl. is a type of lichen that is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, there are still some common issues that may arise and therefore, proper management techniques should be implemented.
Common Diseases
Fungal infections can be a common problem for Graphis subelegans Nyl. These infections can manifest as discoloration, deformation, and even death of the plant. A common fungal disease that affects lichens is anthracnose. This fungal disease can be managed using fungicides. However, it is essential to use fungicides that won't harm the lichen's natural environment.
Common Pests
The Graphis subelegans Nyl. is not usually affected by pests. However, occasionally, some lichen feeders can consume it. The most common pests that attack lichens are mites and snails. These pests can be controlled through physical removal, using natural predators such as predators that eat snails, like thrushes or ducks, and/or by using pesticides that are safe to use on lichens.
Pest & Disease Prevention
In general, prevention is the best approach to avoid pests and diseases on Graphis subelegans Nyl. Keeping the environment healthy and moist will help to maintain the plant's health. Regularly watering the plant during dry periods and fertilizing it with appropriate fertilizers will maintain its health and vitality, making the plant less susceptible to diseases and pests. Additionally, planting companion plants around Graphis subelegans Nyl. can also be helpful in preventing attacks by pests and diseases. Choosing companion plants that have properties that repel pests and promote the overall health of the lichen can be beneficial.
