Overview
Lecanora demissa (Flotow) Zahlbr. is a species of lichen that belongs to the family Lecanoraceae. It is commonly known as the powdered saucer lichen or the pimpled saucer lichen. This lichen species is widely distributed across North America, Europe, and Asia. It is commonly found growing on the bark of trees, rocks, and soil.
Appearance
Lecanora demissa has a distinctive appearance. Its thallus is crustose and ranges in color from white to grayish white. It is covered in small, pimple-like structures called areoles. The areoles are usually 2-3 mm in diameter and have a powdery appearance, giving rise to the common name of powdered saucer lichen. The fruiting bodies or apothecia of this lichen are small and brownish black, reaching up to 1 mm in diameter.
Uses
Lecanora demissa has been used as a dye lichen since medieval times. It produces a yellow to orange dye that was used to color wool and silk. The lichen has also been used medicinally to treat stomach ailments, respiratory issues, and skin problems. The extract of this lichen has been shown to possess antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.
Moreover, powdered saucer lichen has an ecological significance. It serves as a primary food source for reindeer and caribou in northern regions and contributes to the survival of these animals during harsh winter months. This lichen species also plays a role in soil formation and ecosystem stability, as it helps to fix atmospheric nitrogen, which is essential for plant growth.
In conclusion, Lecanora demissa is a unique and versatile lichen with diverse uses and ecological roles.
Light Requirements
Lecanora demissa is a lichenized fungus that prefers to grow in moderate to low light conditions. It can tolerate some partial sun exposure, but it does not thrive in intense direct sunlight. In its natural environment, it grows under the shelter of trees, rocks, or other protective coverings.
Temperature Requirements
The growth of Lecanora demissa is optimal in regions with a temperate climate. The ideal temperature range for this lichen species is between 5°C to 20°C, although it can survive both extreme heat and cold conditions. It is a hardy species that is well adapted to changing weather patterns.
Soil Requirements
Lecanora demissa is primarily found growing on the bark of trees, but it can also be found growing on rocks, soil, and other substrates. It is not a plant that requires soil for its growth, as it is a lichen that consists of a symbiotic relationship between a fungus and an alga. Therefore, the soil pH and nutrient composition are not relevant for the growth of Lecanora demissa.
Cultivation Methods for Lecanora demissa
Lecanora demissa is a lichen species that forms a crust-like growth over rocks, trees, and soil. Cultivating this plant is not impossible, but it differs from traditional plant cultivation. It does not have roots, leaves, and stems like typical plants, and therefore, requires a different approach to cultivation. The most common method of cultivation is transplanting the lichen onto a suitable substrate, such as rocks, bark, or soil, and allowing it to grow.
The substrate used for cultivation must be suitable for the lichen species. The substrate should be free of pollutants, such as pesticides, fertilizers, and other chemicals. You can collect Lecanora demissa from the wild and transplant it onto the substrate of choice under suitable environmental conditions.
Watering Needs for Lecanora Demissa
Lecanora demissa is a drought-tolerant plant, and therefore, requires minimal watering. Overwatering can cause the lichen to die. The best way to water Lecanora demissa is through natural rainfall. However, if rainfall is scarce, you can use a spray bottle to mist the lichen with water. Only mist the lichen when the substrate is dry, and avoid saturating it with water.
Fertilization for Lecanora Demissa
As a lichen species, Lecanora demissa does not require fertilizers for growth and survival. It obtains its nutrients from the air, through photosynthesis. Avoid using fertilizers on the substrate holding the lichen, as it can introduce chemicals that can harm or kill the lichen.
Pruning Requirements for Lecanora Demissa
Lecanora Demissa does not require pruning, as it does not have leaves or stems. However, if it forms a lumpy and unattractive growth, you can use a soft-bristled brush to remove dirt and debris from the surface, to allow better light and air circulation. This promotes healthy growth and development of the lichen. It's essential to avoid using harsh cleaning agents or scrubbing too hard, as it can damage the lichen.
Propagation of Lecanora demissa
Lecanora demissa, commonly known as rimmed firedot lichen, is a type of lichen that belongs to the family Lecanoraceae. It is a crustose lichen and is widely distributed in North America. Although it is not commonly cultivated, it can be propagated artificially through various methods.
Vegetative Propagation
The vegetative method of propagation involves fragmenting the thallus of the lichen and allowing it to colonize new substrates. The fragments can be either naturally detached or artificially detached from the thallus. The fragments should be gently pressed onto the new substrate using a soft brush or your fingers. The substrate should be kept moist, and the thallus should be protected from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures until it becomes firmly attached to the new substrate. This method is commonly used for cultivating lichens in laboratories and for restoring ecosystems.
Sexual Propagation
Lecanora demissa reproduces sexually through the production of ascomata, which house the spores. After fertilization, the spores are released into the air and disperse onto new substrates. Due to the slow growth of lichens, sexual propagation is not commonly used as a means of cultivation. However, it is important for the maintenance of genetic diversity in natural populations.
Cultural Requirements
Lecanora demissa requires specific environmental conditions for successful propagation. The lichen grows on various substrates, including rocks, bark, and soil. It requires a moderate to cold climate with a relatively high humidity level. The lichen also requires low to moderate levels of pollution. It is important to note that Lecanora demissa is highly sensitive to environmental changes, so caution should be exercised when propagating it.
Disease Management
Lecanora demissa is a lichen species that does not suffer from many diseases. However, it may be susceptible to some fungal infections that cause various problems such as discolouration, abnormal growth and ultimately death of the plant.
One of the common diseases that affect L. demissa is the so-called lichenicolous fungus. This fungus grows on the surface of the plant and feeds on it, leading to the death of the lichen. To manage this disease, it is paramount to keep the plant healthy and boost its immune system by providing sufficient sunlight, avoiding stress and injury and maintaining a good growing environment. If the disease is detected early, pruning or removing the affected areas may be practical.
Another disease that affects L. demissa is lichen hypogymniaosis, which causes the discoloration of the plant’s surface. The disease can be managed through a more proactive approach that involves regular inspection of the plant, proper hygiene, and prompt removal of diseased parts. In severe cases, the use of fungicides may be necessary. However, care must be taken in choosing the type of fungicide to avoid damaging the plant.
Pest Management
Lecanora demissa is also susceptible to pest infestations such as insect and mite attacks that can lead to a severe reduction in plant growth and ultimately the death of the plant.
A common insect pest that can attack L. demissa is the bark beetle. The beetle bores into the stem of the plant, causing extensive damage that could lead to its death. To manage infestations by this pest, it is essential to prevent the beetles from laying their eggs on the plant by maintaining proper hygiene and clearing debris or litter that may harbour the insects. In severe cases, insecticides may be used. However, it is crucial to choose the appropriate insecticide to avoid damaging the plant.
Scales and mites are some of the other pests that can attack L. demissa. These pests suck the sap from the plant, leading to wilting and a reduction in the quality of the plant. Chemical control of these pests may be necessary, but it is essential to consult with a plant expert on the best type of pesticide to use.
