Overview:
Lecidea mollis (Wahlenb.) Nyl. is a lichen species commonly found in North America and Europe. It belongs to the family Lecanoraceae and the order Lecanorales.
General Appearance:
Lecidea mollis has a crust-like thallus that is greyish-green or brownish-green in color. The thallus is typically 1-2 cm in diameter and has a smooth surface. The apothecia, which are the fruiting bodies of the lichen, are small and rounded, and often sunken into the thallus. They are usually black or dark brown in color.
Common Names:
Lecidea mollis is commonly known as Soft Lecidea, or more specifically, Soft Lecidea Lichen.
Uses:
Lecidea mollis is not known to have any significant economic or medicinal uses. However, it plays a pivotal role as a primary producer in the ecosystem by providing a habitat and a food source for various insects and microorganisms. Additionally, it is an important indicator of air quality as it is highly sensitive to environmental pollution.
Growth Conditions for Lecidea mollis
Lecidea mollis, commonly known as the Woolly Lecidea lichen, is a slow-growing lichen that thrives in dry, alpine habitats. In order to grow optimally, specific growth conditions need to be met.
Light
Lecidea mollis loves bright, but indirect light. It is not a fan of intense, direct sunlight, and may dry out or suffer damage if exposed too long to the sun. Typically, it grows in places where there is ample light, but where it is shaded from the brightest rays of the sun. This allows the lichen to photosynthesize efficiently without experiencing photosynthetic stress.
Temperature
Lecidea mollis prefers cold alpine environments to warm, humid ones. It is often found at high elevations and will struggle to grow in temperatures above 20°C. The ideal temperature range for this lichen is between 5°C and 15°C. If exposed to warmer temperatures, lichens can dry out and become brittle, making it difficult for them to produce new growth.
Soil Requirements
Lecidea mollis prefers well-drained, rocky soils to grow in. It is often found growing on rocks or stony ground that has good drainage. In contrast, it will struggle to grow in waterlogged soils that are excessively wet. Soil pH is not a significant factor in the growth of Lecidea mollis, and it can tolerate a range of soil types from acidic to alkaline, making it highly adaptable to different environments.
Providing the right growth conditions is crucial to the survival and growth of Lecidea mollis. With the right amount of light, temperature, and soil moisture, this lichen will flourish in alpine habitats where other plants may struggle to survive.
Cultivation
When it comes to cultivating Lecidea mollis, it is best to focus on growing the plant in its natural habitat, which is typically in areas with sandy soils or rocky outcrops. Mimicking these conditions is essential for successful cultivation of this plant.
Lecidea mollis prefers a partially shaded area with moist soil, which can be achieved by planting the plant at an elevation. Planting in a location with good airflow is also essential since it helps reduce the chances of the plant contracting diseases.
Watering Needs
Lecidea mollis requires moderate watering and prefers slightly moist soils. It would be best to water the plant deeply and gradually to allow the soil to absorb the moisture fully. Avoid watering the plant excessively or allowing it to sit in standing water for extended periods since this can cause root rot and other related issues.
Fertilization
The plant does not require constant fertilization; however, it would be best to provide it with a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth. Fertilizing the plant twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall when the plant is not actively growing, works well.
Pruning
Lecidea mollis does not require any pruning unless there is a need to remove dead or damaged branches. If pruning is necessary, it is essential to use sterilized pruning tools to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Lecidea mollis
Lecidea mollis (Wahlenb.) Nyl. can be propagated through two methods, namely vegetative propagation and spore propagation.
Vegetative propagation
Vegetative propagation involves using the plant's vegetative parts to create new individuals. L. mollis can be propagated vegetatively through fragmentation. The plant can be carefully separated into sections and each section planted in suitable soil to develop into a new plant.
Spore propagation
L. mollis can also be propagated through spore propagation. The plant produces spores that can be used to develop new individuals. The plant must be mature enough for spores to be produced, and the spores should be collected as soon as they are ready. The spores can be sown in a suitable substrate with the required nutrients and moisture.
However, propagating L. mollis through spore propagation is a time-consuming process and requires skills and expertise. It is also common for spores to produce genetically different individuals from the parent plant, making propagation challenging.
Both methods of propagation are viable for growing L. mollis. However, vegetative propagation is faster, more reliable, and produces identical copies of the parent plant.
Disease and Pest Management for Lecidea mollis
Lecidea mollis is a lichen with a relatively low occurrence of disease and pest problems. However, it can still be affected by some issues that can limit its growth or even kill it. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Lecidea mollis and suggestions to manage them.
Diseases
Fungal diseases: Lecidea mollis is susceptible to some fungal diseases, such as black fungus and gray mold. These diseases can cause discoloration, deformation, and necrosis of the lichen thallus. To prevent fungal diseases, it is important to maintain proper air circulation, humidity, and light conditions. If fungal infections are detected, removing the affected parts and applying a fungicide can help to control the spread of the disease.
Pests
Herbivorous insects: Lecidea mollis can be attacked by herbivorous insects such as aphids, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests feed on the inner tissues of the lichen, causing discoloration, deformation, and weakening of the thallus. To control herbivorous insects, natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings can be introduced, or insecticidal soap can be applied.
Mammals: Some mammals, such as deer and rabbits, can feed on Lecidea mollis, causing damage to the thallus and even complete removal of the lichen. To prevent mammal damage, fencing or other physical barriers can be installed around the lichen population, or deterrents such as predator urine or repellent sprays can be used.
Overall, proper environmental conditions, careful monitoring, and prompt treatment can help to keep Lecidea mollis healthy and thriving.
