Origin
The lichen species Lecidea atrofusca (Hepp) Mudd is native to North America. It can be found in various regions of the continent, including Alaska, Canada, and the United States.
Common Names
Lecidea atrofusca is commonly referred to as the "black-fruited shadow lichen" due to the coloration of its fruiting bodies. It may also be known by other common names such as "black-seeded shadow lichen" and "black-fruited Lecidea."
Uses
Lecidea atrofusca is not commonly used for any significant medicinal or economic purposes. However, like other lichen species, it plays an important ecological role in providing habitat, food, and medicine for various organisms or wildlife. Some indigenous tribes of North America have traditionally utilized certain lichen species in their cultural practices, such as for dyeing or tanning leather.
General Appearance
Lecidea atrofusca has a crust-like thallus that adheres to its substrate (e.g., rock, bark). The overall coloration of the thallus varies from light gray to black. The fruiting bodies (apothecia) are spherical and black, measuring between 0.5-1 mm in diameter. The young apothecia may be paler in color but eventually darken as they mature. The ascospores are elliptical, hyaline, and measure approximately 10-14 x 5-7 µm.
Growth Conditions for Lecidea atrofusca (Hepp) Mudd
Lecidea atrofusca (Hepp) Mudd is commonly found in alpine and subalpine regions, particularly in areas with high humidity such as rock crevices and mossy areas. Its optimal growth conditions are as follows:
Light
Lecidea atrofusca (Hepp) Mudd prefers low to moderate light conditions. In its natural environment, it is often found growing in shaded areas, under overhanging rocks or in crevices where it is protected from direct sunlight.
Temperature
Lecidea atrofusca (Hepp) Mudd is well adapted to cold climates and can tolerate very low temperatures. It grows best in temperatures ranging from 10-20°C. In winter during periods of heavy snow cover, it remains dormant and can survive under the snow for several months.
Soil Requirements
Lecidea atrofusca (Hepp) Mudd is not a soil-dependent lichen and can grow on a wide range of surfaces including rocks, tree bark, and soil. However, it prefers a well-drained substrate with low organic matter content. The lichen is able to survive in nutrient-poor environments due to its ability to absorb nutrients and water from the air and rain.
Overall, the ideal conditions for the growth of Lecidea atrofusca (Hepp) Mudd are low to moderate light, cool temperatures and a well-drained substrate. It is important to maintain these conditions in order to foster optimal growth and development of the lichen.
Cultivation of Lecidea atrofusca (Hepp) Mudd
Lecidea atrofusca (Hepp) Mudd, commonly known as black-tipped rim-lichen, is a species of lichen that can be cultivated in gardens or in outdoor spaces. The first step in cultivation is finding an area with the right environmental conditions.
This lichen species prefers areas with moderate light and moisture. It can grow in somewhat shaded areas, but not in complete darkness. Outdoor spaces with an average humidity of 60-65% and temperatures in the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit are ideal for its growth.
Watering Needs of Lecidea atrofusca (Hepp) Mudd
Watering requirements of Lecidea atrofusca (Hepp) Mudd depend on the humidity of the environment. In some areas with high humidity, it may not need watering at all.
However, if the area is dry or the humidity is low, the lichen needs to be watered by spraying it with water from a spray bottle. Distilled or rainwater is preferred as tap water contains chemicals that could harm the lichen.
Fertilization of Lecidea atrofusca (Hepp) Mudd
Lecidea atrofusca (Hepp) Mudd does not require any fertilizer as it obtains its nutrients from the environment. However, it can be beneficial to apply small amounts of organic compost or leaf debris around the lichen to simulate natural conditions and support its growth.
Pruning of Lecidea atrofusca (Hepp) Mudd
Lecidea atrofusca (Hepp) Mudd does not require any pruning as it grows slowly and does not become overgrown. However, it is important to remove any debris or fallen leaves from around the lichen to prevent it from being smothered and to minimize competition for nutrients from other plants.
Propagation of Lecidea atrofusca
Lecidea atrofusca can be propagated through both sexual and asexual methods.
Sexual Propagation
Sexual propagation involves the use of spores produced by the plant. These spores are released into the air and may land on suitable substrates, where they germinate and develop into new plants. To propagate L. atrofusca through sexual methods, the following steps are recommended:
- Collect the spores from mature fruiting bodies using a sterile instrument.
- Sow the spores onto a suitable substrate, such as a mixture of sand and peat moss, and cover with a thin layer of vermiculite.
- Place the substrate in a warm and humid environment with good air circulation.
- The spores will germinate after a few days to weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted to larger containers once they reach a suitable size.
Asexual Propagation
Asexual propagation involves the use of vegetative parts of the plant, such as stems, leaves, or roots. This method is faster and more reliable than sexual propagation but may not yield genetic variability among offspring. To propagate L. atrofusca by asexual methods, the following steps are recommended:
- Collect healthy stem cuttings from a mature plant, making sure they are at least 10cm long and have several leaves.
- Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone.
- Insert the cutting into a pot filled with a well-draining soil mix, and water thoroughly.
- Place the pot in a bright but shaded area and mist the cutting daily.
- The cutting should start to develop roots after a few weeks, and can be transplanted to larger containers or directly to the garden once they establish.
Disease Management:
Lecidea atrofusca is susceptible to several diseases that can reduce the plant's yield and quality. The most common diseases are:
- Anthracnose: This disease causes lesions and spots on the leaves. It can also affect the stems and fruit. To manage anthracnose, prune the infected parts of the plant and apply a fungicide.
- Leaf spot: This disease also causes spots on the leaves that can merge and form large patches. To manage leaf spots, prune the infected parts of the plant and apply a fungicide.
- Black rot: This disease affects the fruit, causing black spots that can grow and cover the entire fruit. To manage black rot, remove the infected fruit and apply a fungicide.
Pest Management:
Lecidea atrofusca is also susceptible to several pests, including:
- Aphids: These pests feed on the plant's sap, causing stunted growth and deformities. To manage aphids, remove the infested parts of the plant and apply an insecticide.
- Spider mites: These pests feed on the plant's leaves, causing yellowing and a speckled appearance. To manage spider mites, remove the infested parts of the plant and apply an insecticide.
- Caterpillars: These pests feed on the leaves, causing holes and defoliation. To manage caterpillars, remove the infested parts of the plant and apply an insecticide.
It is important to monitor the plant regularly for signs of disease or pest infestation. Early detection and management are crucial to minimize the impact on the plant's growth and yield.
