Overview of Lecidea Aleutica Degel
Lecidea aleutica Degel is a type of lichen, which is composed of a fungal partner and a photosynthetic partner. This lichen species is found in the northern regions of Alaska and Siberia.
Common Names
Lecidea aleutica Degel is commonly referred to as Aleutian shield lichen due to its native habitat in the Aleutian Islands. It is also known as Arctic camouflage lichen as it is a favorite among military personnel because of its natural camouflage.
General Appearance
The thallus of Lecidea aleutica Degel is crustose, meaning it forms a thin, crust-like layer on the substrate it grows on. The color of the thallus ranges from light green to dark brown, with a rough, scaly texture. It typically grows to about 2-3 cm in diameter and its lobes are deeply divided. It is often mistaken for a moss or a lichen that consists of flat, leaf-like growths.
Uses
Lecidea aleutica has no known practical uses, but it is mostly appreciated for its aesthetic qualities. The unique texture and colors have made it a popular choice in floral arrangements. It is slowly gaining recognition as a bioindicator. Some studies have also suggested that Lecidea aleutica is an important lichen for preserving the habitat of wildlife species in the arctic and subarctic regions.
Light conditions
Lecidea aleutica Degel. can tolerate both full sun and partial shade. However, it grows best in areas that receive moderate to high light intensity.
Temperature requirements
Lecidea aleutica Degel. is a cold-tolerant species that thrives in cool to sub-Arctic environments. It can survive in temperatures as low as -20 °C and prefers daytime temperatures ranging from 5 °C to 10 °C.
Soil preferences
Lecidea aleutica Degel. can grow on various types of soils, but it prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. The species can also tolerate soils with low pH levels, ranging from 4.5 – 6.5, with moderate to high nutrient content. Since it is a foliose lichen, it requires a substrate for attachment, and the most common substrates for Lecidea aleutica Degel. are rocks and bark of trees.
Cultivation Methods for Lecidea aleutica Degel.
Lecidea aleutica Degel. is a lichen species that naturally grows on rocks and stones in the Arctic, subarctic and alpine regions. It is an extremely hardy plant that can withstand low temperatures, high winds, and poor soil conditions. Therefore, it is possible to cultivate this lichen for ornamental purposes in gardens or as a ground cover in outdoor spaces.
To cultivate L. aleutica Degel., collect small pieces of the lichen from its natural habitat during the spring or fall when it is most active. Choose a freely draining compost mixture of peat moss, sand, and perlite. Place the small pieces of lichen on top of the compost and press them down slightly. Water the mixture lightly and place in a cool, shady area. Within a few days, the lichen should start to grow, and after a few months, it will cover the surface of the compost.
Watering Needs for Lecidea aleutica Degel.
Lecidea aleutica Degel. is a drought-tolerant plant, so it doesn't need frequent watering. However, it is essential to keep the compost mixture slightly moist to encourage growth and prevent drying out. When the compost appears dry, water lightly to avoid saturating the roots of the lichen.
During winter, avoid watering as the cold temperature and limited sunlight may cause the roots to rot. Water the lichen once a week during the growing season (spring and summer) and reduce the frequency during the dormant season (fall and winter).
Fertilization for Lecidea aleutica Degel.
Lecidea aleutica Degel. doesn't require fertilization as it receives nutrients from the surrounding environment. However, if you decide to plant it in garden soil, you can mix up some organic matter such as compost, leaf mold or aged manure into the topsoil before planting to help to improve soil fertility.
Pruning for Lecidea aleutica Degel.
Pruning is not necessary for Lecidea aleutica Degel. as this plant adapts to growing in harsh environments and requires little maintenance. However, you may cut off any discolored or dead portions of the lichen to encourage new growth and maintain an appealing appearance.
Propagation of Lecidea aleutica Degel.
Lecidea aleutica Degel. can be propagated both sexually and asexually.
Sexual Propagation
Sexual propagation of Lecidea aleutica Degel. is done through the use of spores. The spores are produced in the apothecia, which are the cup-like structures found on the thallus of the plant. The spores are then dispersed by the wind and can germinate on suitable substrates. Once germinated, the spore gives rise to a new thallus that eventually develops into a new plant.
Asexual Propagation
Asexual propagation of Lecidea aleutica Degel. is done through the fragmentation of the thallus. This method involves breaking off a small piece of the thallus and then planting it in a suitable substrate. The thallus will then grow and form a new plant. This method is commonly used in commercial horticulture for the propagation of plants because it allows for the production of many plants in a short period of time.
Disease and Pest Management for Lecidea Aleutica Degel.
Lecidea Aleutica Degel. is a lichen species that is relatively disease-resistant. However, it can still be affected by some fungal and bacterial diseases, as well as pests that attack its host plant. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Lecidea Aleutica and ways to manage them:
Fungal Diseases:
Fungal diseases can cause discoloration, deformation, and damage to the lichen thallus and affect its photosynthetic capacity. Fungi can spread through spores, water, and soil, and thrive in humid and moist environments.
To manage fungal diseases in Lecidea Aleutica Degel., maintain proper growing conditions that promote air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and prune affected areas. Applying a copper-based fungicide can help control and prevent fungal diseases.
Bacterial Diseases:
Bacterial infections can cause black, brown, or reddish spots on the lichen thallus, leading to reduced photosynthesis and growth. Bacteria can spread through leaf injury, water, and air.
To manage bacterial diseases in Lecidea Aleutica Degel., remove infected plant parts, maintain dry conditions, and apply copper hydroxide-based bactericides to prevent further infection.
Pests:
Lecidea Aleutica Degel. is not known to harbor any specific pests that damage the lichen directly. However, the host plant, such as trees or rocks, can be affected by pests like insects, mites, and snails that can indirectly affect the lichen's growth and development by reducing its attachment and availability of nutrients and moisture.
To manage pest problems, use physical barriers or traps, prune affected plant parts, and apply insecticidal or miticidal sprays as required. Use organic and biodegradable pest management products that are safe for the environment and do not harm the lichen or its habitat.
