Overview
Lecanora circinata (Pers.) Ach. is a lichenized fungus that belongs to the family Lecanoraceae. It is also known as the "Rock Wrack Lichen" due to its characteristic habit of growing on rocks in coastal areas. This plant is found in various parts of the world and is commonly used in traditional medicine.Origin and Distribution
Lecanora circinata is distributed globally, commonly found in North and South America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Oceania. This lichen has been reported to grow in a wide range of habitats, including arctic tundra, alpine regions, forests, and coastal areas. It is commonly found on rocks, stones, and boulders, particularly in areas near the sea.Common Names
Lecanora circinata is commonly known as "Rock Wrack Lichen" due to its preference for growing on rocks in coastal areas. Additionally, it is known by other names such as "Lecanora cincinnata," "Lecanora corrugata," and "Lecanora turneri."General Appearance
Lecanora circinata is a foliose lichen with a distinctive bluish-grey coloration. The thallus of this plant is up to 12 cm in diameter and has a lobed margin that is often tightly appressed to the substrate. The upper surface of the thallus is usually smooth with a lusterous appearance, while the lower surface is dark and sorediate.Uses
This lichen has been used traditionally for various medicinal purposes. In Ayurveda, it is used to treat various ailments such as liver disorders, dyspepsia, and rheumatism. Additionally, it is also used as a natural dye to color wool and fabrics. Studies have shown that Lecanora circinata contains various bioactive compounds such as usnic acid, atranorin, and zeorin, which exhibit antimicrobial, antioxidant and anticancer activities.Light Requirements
Lecanora circinata is known to thrive in areas with moderate to high levels of light. It can tolerate partial shade but does best in areas with direct exposure to sunlight. It is commonly found growing on rocks, bark, or on the ground in open areas with little to no shade. In areas with heavy shading, this species may struggle to grow and may produce smaller thalli.
Temperature Requirements
Lecanora circinata is generally a hardy species that can withstand a range of temperature conditions. It is known to grow in a variety of climates, from temperate to sub-arctic regions, with an optimal growth temperature range of 10-25°C. However, it can continue to grow in temperatures as low as -30°C, making it a highly adaptable species.
Soil Requirements
Lecanora circinata is not particularly picky about soil types as it can grow on a variety of substrates, including rocks and soil. However, it prefers well-drained soils that are not waterlogged. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels, from acidic to alkaline, but typically grows best in neutral to slightly acidic soils. Overall, the plant has a low nutrient requirement and can thrive in relatively infertile soils with low organic matter content.
Cultivation methods for Lecanora circinata
Lecanora circinata can be cultivated in containers or directly in the ground. If growing in containers, it's essential to use a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil mix. The plant prefers a sunny to partially shaded spot with good air circulation. If growing in the ground, choose a location that receives ample sunlight and avoid areas that retain too much moisture.
Watering needs for Lecanora circinata
Watering needs for Lecanora circinata are relatively low. The plant can tolerate drought conditions and prefers to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot and could cause the plant to die. Therefore, only water when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization for Lecanora circinata
Lecanora circinata doesn't require much fertilization, as it can adapt well to nutrient-poor soils. However, you can apply a slow-release, organic fertilizer in the spring to improve soil quality and promote healthy growth. Over-fertilization can harm the plant, so use fertilizers sparingly.
Pruning Lecanora circinata
Pruning Lecanora circinata isn't necessary as the plant usually grows in a low, spreading pattern and doesn't get very tall. However, you can trim the plant to shape it or remove any dead or diseased parts. Use clean, sharp pruning shears and sterilize them with rubbing alcohol between cuts to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Lecanora circinata (Pers.) Ach.
Lecanora circinata (Pers.) Ach. is a lichenized fungus that can be propagated through various methods. As a lichen, it comprises two or three symbiotic partners: a fungus, an alga, and sometimes a cyanobacterium. The propagation of L. circinata involves taking advantage of these symbionts and their respective roles in the lichen's reproduction.
Autonomous Fragmentation
One of the easiest and natural ways to propagate L. circinata is through autonomous fragmentation. This method involves the fragmentation of lichen thalli into smaller pieces, either by natural causes or manual removal. Once these fragments fall off or are removed and placed in contact with a suitable substrate, they can develop into new lichen colonies.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation is another method for propagating L. circinata. In this method, small pieces of lichen thalli are removed and transplanted to a new location. The lichen will then begin to grow and spread over the new substrate.
Tissue Culture
Tissue culture is a laboratory-based method for propagating L. circinata. It involves taking small pieces of the thallus and placing them in a sterile culture medium that provides the necessary nutrients for growth. This method allows for the production of genetically identical clones of the original lichen.
Conclusion
Overall, L. circinata can be propagated through natural or artificial means. Autonomous fragmentation and vegetative propagation are simple methods for propagating this lichen, while tissue culture provides a way to produce genetically identical clones for research purposes.
Disease and Pest Management for Lecanora circinata (Pers.) Ach.
Lecanora circinata is a commonly occurring lichen that serves as an ecological indicator of air quality. While it is not commonly affected by pests and diseases, here are some possibilities and the ways to manage them:
Diseases
Fungal and bacterial diseases are the most likely ailments to affect Lecanora circinata. Some of the common diseases are:
Bacterial Infection
Bacterial infections in lichen have not been extensively studied, but they can cause damage to the thallus and lead to necrosis. The infected areas need to be removed immediately to prevent the spread of the disease. Use a sterile blade to remove the affected areas and destroy them.
Fungal Infection
Fungal infections may cause spots, deformations or discolorations on the thallus. The best way to prevent fungal infections is to ensure the lichen is growing in optimal conditions. Remove the affected areas and improve the light and ventilation in the area. If the infection is severe, consider using a fungicide.
Pests
As lichens grow slowly and require minimal nutrients and water, they are less susceptible to pests. However, some commonly occurring pests that may affect Lecanora circinata are:
Slugs and Snails
Slugs and snails may chew on the thallus resulting in the removal of the photosynthetic outer layer and after a period of time the death of the lichen. To prevent the slug and snail attack, control these mollusks through the use of baits, mechanical barriers or handpicking.
Small Insects
Small insects such as mites and aphids can affect lichen growth. Mites damage the thallus by leaving bite marks while aphids suck the sap. While insecticides can be used to control these insects, avoid their use as they may also affect other beneficial organisms on the lichen and in the area. Instead, use a strong jet of water to remove the aphids or to knock the mites off the lichen.
Overall, it is important to prevent pests and diseases to maintain population of Lecanora circinata.
