Overview
Lecanora tesselina (Tuck.) Zahlbr. is a lichenized fungus that belongs to the family Lecanoraceae. It is commonly known as the Cracked Lecanora, and it is found in various parts of North America especially in the Great Lakes region.
General Appearance
The Cracked Lecanora has a distinct physical appearance. It forms pale gray-green, round to elongated lobe-like structures on the surface of rocks. The lobes can range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters in diameter, and are cracked or fissured, giving it the characteristic look that inspired its common name. Its thallus (body) is composed of fungal hyphae intertwined with photosynthesizing green algae or cyanobacteria, giving it a dual nature of being both a fungus and an alga.
Uses
Some Indigenous groups in North America have used the Cracked Lecanora for medicinal purposes. For example, they used the lichen in infusions to treat respiratory illnesses and stomach conditions. It is also said to have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and has been used to treat wounds and skin infections. Additionally, scientists have found that the lichen contains a unique group of bioactive compounds called lecanoric acids that may have potential medical applications in the fields of cancer research and antibiotics.
Conclusion
The Cracked Lecanora is an interesting and important organism that has distinct physical characteristics and potential medicinal uses. Its unique composition and properties make it a valuable subject for scientific research into new treatments and medicines for various ailments.
Light Requirements
Lecanora tesselina typically grows in shaded areas such as forests or on north-facing cliffs. It requires low to moderate levels of light, with direct sunlight likely to harm or kill the plant. As a result, it is commonly found growing under shrubs and trees.
Temperature Requirements
Lecanora tesselina is a cold-hardy lichen that can survive extreme temperatures. It is typically found in areas with cool to cold climates, such as subalpine and alpine regions. The optimal temperature range for growth is between 0 and 15°C (32-59°F).
Soil Requirements
Lecanora tesselina is not a true plant and does not require soil to grow. Instead, it obtains its nutrients from the air and rainwater. It can grow on a variety of substrates, including rocks, mosses, and trees. However, it prefers substrates that are slightly acidic and have high levels of moisture.
Cultivation Methods
Lecanora tesselina is a type of lichen that grows naturally in a variety of habitats, including on rocks, bark, and soil. It can be grown in cultivation, but it requires specific conditions to thrive.
The first step in cultivating Lecanora tesselina is to obtain a suitable substrate. The lichen requires bark or a porous rock that can hold moisture but also drain easily. A mix of peat and vermiculite can also be used as a substrate.
Once the substrate is acquired, the lichen can be propagated by using a small piece of the lichen thallus, which is the main body of the lichen. The thallus is placed onto the substrate and kept moist to encourage attachment and growth.
Watering Needs
Lecanora tesselina requires consistent moisture to grow and develop. It should be watered at regular intervals to prevent the substrate from drying out. However, the lichen should not be watered excessively, as this can lead to fungal and bacterial growth and eventual death of the lichen.
The frequency of watering depends on the humidity level and temperature of the growing environment. In general, the lichen should be misted or sprinkled with water every one to two weeks.
Fertilization
Lecanora tesselina does not require any fertilization or added nutrients to grow properly. It obtains its nutrients from the air and surrounding environment.
Excessive fertilization can actually harm the lichen and lead to the growth of competing organisms, which can overwhelm and kill the lichen.
Pruning
Lecanora tesselina does not require any pruning, as it does not have any identifiable growth points or structure to maintain. However, the substrate or growing surface should be occasionally cleaned to remove any debris or competing organisms.
If the substrate becomes contaminated with unwanted organisms, it can be sterilized by heating it in an oven at 150 degrees Celsius for one hour or by soaking it in bleach solution for several hours. The sterilized substrate can then be used to propagate and regrow the lichen.
Propagation of Lecanora tesselina
Lecanora tesselina is a species of lichen that grows on rocks or soil. It is commonly distributed in North America and Europe, and it's a crucial source of food for many animals. Propagation of this plant is possible through various methods, including soredia and fragmentation.
Soredia Propagation
Soredia propagation is one of the primary methods of reproducing Lecanora tesselina. Soredia are small, powdery particles that contain both algal and fungal cells, and they are dispersed by the wind.
To propagate Lecanora tesselina through soredia, one must collect mature lichen that has formed soredia, usually in the form of greenish-gray powder. The lichen is then broken apart, and the soredia are dispersed carefully over the desired surface. The soredia will then attach themselves and begin to form a new lichen.
Fragmentation Propagation
Fragmentation propagation is another method used in Lecanora tesselina propagation. This method involves splitting the lichen, which will then regenerate into two separate, independent lobes.
To propagate Lecanora tesselina through fragmentation, one must take the lichen and carefully split it into two lobes. The lobes are then allowed to regenerate independently, forming two new lichens.
Propagation is essential for preserving and expanding the population of Lecanora tesselina, as it is a crucial species for maintaining ecological balance in many areas. Through the use of soredia and fragmentation, propagating Lecanora tesselina is a simple and effective way to preserve this valuable lichen.
Disease and Pest Management for Lecanora tesselina
Lecanora tesselina is a lichen that is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, like all plants, it may become susceptible to a few problems in certain conditions. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Common Diseases
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes circular or irregular brown or black spots on the lichen's thallus. To manage this disease, prune or remove the severely infected parts of the plant and destroy them. Ensure that the plant is growing in well-draining soil and receives adequate sunlight and water. You may apply a fungicide to the plant to control the anthracnose.
Phytophthora root rot: This fungal disease causes the lichen to wilt, discolor, and rot at the base, eventually leading to its death. To manage phytophthora root rot, avoid overwatering the plant and ensure adequate drainage. Improve the plant's air circulation by pruning any overgrown bushes or trees around it. Apply fungicide to the plant to control the fungal infection.
Common Pests
Scale insects: These insects are reddish-brown and are usually found feeding on the plant's leaves. Scale insects cause the plant to become yellow and wilted. To manage scale insects, wipe them off the leaves with a damp cloth. Alternatively, apply an insecticide to the plant to control the pests.
Mites: Mites are spider-like creatures that suck the sap from the plant's leaves, causing them to become yellow and distorted. To manage mites, spray the leaves with a jet of water to wash off the pests. You may also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the mites.
By preventing disease and pest problems, you can help ensure that your Lecanora tesselina plant stays healthy and thrives for years to come.
