Description of Lecanora degelii Schauer & Brodo
Lecanora degelii Schauer & Brodo is a species of lichen belonging to the family Lecanoraceae. It was first discovered by Schauer and Brodo in 1979 in the Rocky Mountains of North America.
Common Names
This lichen is commonly known as Degel's rock lichen or Degel's moon lichen.
Appearance
Lecanora degelii Schauer & Brodo has a foliose thallus, which means it has leaf-like lobes that are loosely attached to the substrate. The thallus is pale green to gray in color and can grow up to 5 cm in diameter. The lobes are convex and have a smooth surface with white to pale brown undersides.
The apothecia, which are the reproductive structures of the lichen, are small and rounded with a black to dark brown disc, surrounded by a white to pale gray margin.
Uses
Lecanora degelii Schauer & Brodo has no known commercial or medicinal uses. However, like most lichens, it is an indicator of environmental health and is used in ecological studies to assess the quality of air, water, and soil.
Light Requirements
Lecanora degelii Schauer & Brodo grows best in moderate to high levels of light exposure. This species is commonly found on rocks and exposed soil surfaces in open and sunny habitats. However, it can also grow in partially shaded areas but with reduced growth rates and reproductive success.
Temperature Requirements
This species is predominantly found in colder regions with mean annual temperatures ranging from -2.5°C to -11°C. Lecanora degelii Schauer & Brodo can tolerate freezing temperatures and can initiate photosynthesis at low temperatures. However, it grows slowly in warmer regions with temperatures exceeding 10°C.
Soil Requirements
Lecanora degelii Schauer & Brodo prefers nutrient-poor soils that are well-drained and with low levels of organic matter. It grows well in soils that are slightly alkaline to slightly acidic with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. This species is usually found on soils with low levels of available nitrogen and phosphorus. It can also grow on different types of substrates such as rocks, bark or wood, and even in areas with permafrost.
Cultivation Methods
Lecanora degelii Schauer & Brodo is a lichen, and therefore requires specific cultivation conditions. The best method of cultivation is to obtain a small sample from a wild source and then place it on a suitable substrate, such as a rock or a tree. It is important to select a substrate that closely mimics the natural habitat of the plant.
Lichens require light, but they are sensitive to high levels of direct sunlight. Therefore, it is best to place the substrate with Lecanora degelii in a partially shaded area.
Watering Needs
Lichens obtain their moisture from the air, and they do not require regular watering like other plants. However, it is important to maintain a consistent level of humidity around the plant. If the air becomes too dry, mist the plant with a light mist of water from a spray bottle. Avoid overwatering the plant, as this can lead to mold or fungal growth.
Fertilization
Lichens do not require fertilizer, as they obtain their nutrients from the air. In fact, using fertilizer can harm the plant and disrupt its natural balance.
Pruning
Lichens do not require pruning, as they do not have true leaves or stems. However, they may require occasional maintenance, such as removing debris or dead plant material from the substrate. Carefully remove any dead or damaged sections of the plant, using tweezers or a soft brush to avoid damaging the rest of the plant.
Propagation Methods for Lecanora Degelii Schauer & Brodo
Lecanora degelii Schauer & Brodo, commonly known as Degel's rim lichen, is an epiphytic lichen species that predominantly grows in North America. It can be propagated by two main methods: asexual and sexual reproduction.
Asexual Reproduction
Asexual reproduction of Lecanora degelii Schauer & Brodo occurs through fragmentation. The thallus (body) of the lichen becomes fragmented either naturally or through human intervention. Each fragment can develop into a new lichen individual if the appropriate environmental conditions are met.
The fragment of the lichen can be attached to the substrate either directly or with a thin layer of sterilized adhesive such as cyanoacrylate glue or silicone glue. The substrate should provide a suitable habitat with appropriate ventilation, moisture level, and nutrient availability. Suitable substrates for Lecanora degelii Schauer & Brodo include tree bark, rock surfaces, and soil.
Sexual Reproduction
Sexual reproduction in Lecanora degelii Schauer & Brodo involves the production of spores. The spores are produced in small, cup-like structures called ascomata, which are formed on the thallus surface during the sexual reproductive phase. The spores are released from the ascomata and disperse through wind, water, or animals.
To propagate the lichen through sexual reproduction, the collected spores should be sown into a suitable sterile substrate. The substrate should be rich in nutrients and have adequate ventilation and moisture. Suitable substrates include agar, potato dextrose agar, or sterilized soil.
The spores should be sterilized before sowing to prevent contamination by other microorganisms. Lecanora degelii Schauer & Brodo spores should be sterilized by exposing them to UV radiation or treating them with a dilute solution of sodium hypochlorite.
Propagation of Lecanora degelii Schauer & Brodo can be challenging due to its slow growth rate and specific environmental requirements. However, with proper care and attention, propagation can be achieved through both asexual and sexual reproduction methods.
Disease and Pest Management for Lecanora degelii Schauer & Brodo
Lecanora degelii Schauer & Brodo is a species of lichen that is commonly found growing on rocks and soil in alpine and subalpine habitats. While it is generally hardy and resilient, like all living organisms, it may experience disease and pest problems that can impact its health and ability to thrive.
Common Diseases
Some common diseases that may affect Lecanora degelii Schauer & Brodo include lichenicolous fungi, which are parasitic fungi that grow on and damage lichen surfaces, often leading to discoloration and death. Another disease that may impact this species is lichenostigma, a type of fungal infection that forms black spots on the thallus surface and can cause distortion or disfigurement.
To manage lichenicolous fungi, affected thalli should be carefully removed and destroyed to prevent spreading. Keeping the surrounding environment clean and free of debris can also help reduce the likelihood of infection. Lichenostigma can be managed by removing affected tissue and keeping the environment well-ventilated to reduce the amount of moisture on the thallus.
Common Pests
While lichens are not commonly affected by pests, Lecanora degelii Schauer & Brodo may be vulnerable to damage by grazing animals such as deer, elk, and mountain goats. These animals may be attracted to lichen due to its high nutritional content, and can accidentally or deliberately damage lichen populations, impacting their growth and ability to reproduce.
To manage pest damage, it is important to control animal populations through hunting or other means, or to restrict access to sensitive lichen habitats through fencing or habitat restoration efforts. Educating the public about the importance of conserving sensitive lichen habitats and the role lichens play in supporting biodiversity can also help reduce the likelihood of damage by grazing and browsing animals.
Overall, while Lecanora degelii Schauer & Brodo is a hardy and resilient species, it may experience disease and pest problems that can impact its health and viability. With careful management, however, these issues can be minimized, allowing this valuable lichen to continue to thrive in its native habitat.
