Overview
Lecanora boligera (Norman ex Th. Fr.) Hedl. is a lichenized fungus that grows on rocks and soil. It belongs to the genus Lecanora in the family Lecanoraceae. This species is commonly found in the northern hemisphere.
Common Names
Lecanora boligera is commonly known as Shield Lichen. The name originates from the pattern on the lichen that forms a shield-like shape.
Appearance
The thallus (lichens’s vegetative body) of Lecanora boligera is crustose and varies in color from brown to black and is commonly 2-3 cm in diameter. The lichen produces small apothecia (fungal reproductive structure) that are black and have a distinct margin. The apothecia are normally located in the center of the thallus.
Uses
The lichen does not have any known ethnobotanical uses. However, researchers have discovered that it produces a chemical known as gyrophoric acid. This chemical can be used in the manufacture of pharmaceuticals.
Light Requirements
Lecanora boligera is a type of lichen that requires moderate levels of sunlight. It grows best in partially shaded areas that receive dappled light throughout the day. Exposure to direct sunlight for extended periods of time can cause the lichen to dry out and die. On the other hand, too much shade can slow down its growth.
Temperature Requirements
The growth of Lecanora boligera is influenced by temperature. It grows best in moderate temperatures ranging from 15°C -25 °C. It can survive extreme temperatures ranging from -25°C to 55°C but under such conditions, it grows slowly, and its growth can be stunted with adverse health consequences.
Soil Requirements
Lecanora boligera is not a true monocot or dicot like most other plants, therefore it doesn't require soil, in the strictest sense. Instead, it grows on rocks, bark, and other hard surfaces. However, the substrate on which it grows is important for proper growth. The lichen requires a well-drained and aerated substrate that is not water-logged as excess moisture can trigger growth of other unwanted organisms, as well as cause the lichen to rot.
Cultivation Methods for Lecanora boligera
The cultivation of Lecanora boligera can be done either through seeds or vegetatively through the use of thalli. Seeds can be obtained by handpicking mature fruits and placing them in sterile containers to dry. The seeds can then be extracted and sown in sterilized soil, providing a temperature range of 15-25°C and partial sunlight.
On the other hand, thalli can be obtained by scraping them off hard substrates and attaching them to a suitable substrate in a greenhouse environment. Suitable substrates may include bark chips, rock wool, or clay pellets, and greenhouse conditions should mimic the plant's natural environment by providing indirect light, high humidity, and good air circulation.
Watering Needs of Lecanora boligera
Lecanora boligera requires minimal watering since it gets most of its nutrients from photosynthesis and air. Overwatering can lead to the development of fungal and bacterial diseases, and drought can cause the plant to go into dormancy or die. Therefore, it is important to water the plant sparingly, using a misting spray or by pouring water directly onto the substrate without wetting the thalli.
Fertilization of Lecanora boligera
Lecanora boligera does not require fertilization since it obtains all its nutrients from the surrounding environment. However, if necessary, organic fertilizers such as compost tea can be used. Fertilizers should be applied sparingly to avoid nutrient buildup and overfeeding of the plant, which can have detrimental effects on its health.
Pruning of Lecanora boligera
Lecanora boligera does not require pruning since it grows slowly, and its size is usually restricted by the substrate's size. However, if necessary, individual thalli can be trimmed to maintain the desired shape and size. Any pruning should be done carefully to avoid damaging the thalli and should be carried out during the plant's active growth phase to ensure rapid regrowth of the trimmed area.
Propagation of Lecanora boligera
Lecanora boligera is a crustose lichen that belongs to the Lecanoraceae family. The plant can reproduce both sexually and asexually. In order to propagate Lecanora boligera effectively, it is important to understand its propagation methods.
Asexual Propagation
Lecanora boligera can propagate asexually through fragmentation. In nature, it can be easily fragmented by wind, rain, or water. The fragmented pieces can then re-establish themselves into new lichen thalli. This method is useful for propagating Lecanora boligera, as it requires minimal effort and can produce new plants quickly.
To propagate the plant using fragmentation, pieces of the lichen thallus can be collected and placed onto a substrate which has the same conditions as the plant's natural habitat. The substrate should be moist and should contain the nutrients necessary for the plant to thrive. The fragments will then grow into new thalli over time.
Sexual Propagation
Lecanora boligera can also propagate sexually through the production of spores that can germinate into new plants. The spores are usually produced in the apothecia of the plant, which is the reproductive structure. The apothecia can either be self-fertile or out-crossing.
To propagate the plant using spores, the spores must be collected from mature apothecia and then placed onto a suitable substrate. The substrate should contain the necessary nutrients and conditions for the spores to germinate and grow into new lichen thalli. This method is more time-consuming and requires more effort than asexual propagation, but it produces genetically diverse plants that can adapt to different conditions.
Disease Management
Lecanora boligera is generally a hardy plant and is not prone to many diseases. However, it is susceptible to lichen spot disease, caused by the fungal pathogen Phoma herbarum. The disease manifests as small brown/black spots on the thallus and can lead to discoloration and death of the whole thallus.
To manage lichen spot disease, it is important to promptly remove any infected plant material. Pruning and removing affected branches or thalli can prevent the spread of the pathogen to other parts of the plant. Fungicides can also be used to control the spread of the disease, but it is important to follow the package instructions and use protective gear.
Pest Management
Lecanora boligera is also relatively resistant to pests. However, some species of insects, such as aphids and scale insects, can infest the plant and reduce its growth and vitality.
To manage a pest infestation, it is important to first identify the pest and determine the appropriate treatment. Various insecticides and pesticides are available in the market that can help control pests, but it is crucial to carefully follow the instructions of the product and use protective gear to avoid any adverse effects.
Additionally, promoting conditions that are unfavorable to pests can help prevent infestation. This includes good sanitation practices, proper watering and fertilization, and regular pruning to maintain the plant's health and vigor.
