Origin and Common Names
Letrouitia parabola (Nyl.) R. Sant. & Hafellner is a rare species of lichen that belongs to the family of Parmeliaceae. It was first discovered in the Canary Islands and has since been found in other parts of Spain, Portugal, and Morocco. This lichen is commonly referred to as the Canarian Beard Lichen or Barba de Chivo de Canarias in Spanish.
Uses
Letrouitia parabola is not known to have any significant uses. However, like most lichens, it has been traditionally used in medicine for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It is also used as an indicator of air pollution due to its sensitivity to airborne pollutants.
General Appearance
Letrouitia parabola grows as a foliose lichen on rocks or bark. It is typically pale grey or greenish-grey in color and forms intricate branching patterns that resemble a beard, hence one of its common names. The thallus is up to 15cm in diameter and the lobes are flat with sinuous margins. The underside of the thallus is black and bears black rhizines that attach the lichen to the substrate. The apothecia are rare and may appear as light brown discs on the upper surface of the thallus.
Growth Conditions of Letrouitia parabola (Nyl.) R. Sant. & Hafellner
Light Requirements: Letrouitia parabola thrives in areas that receive moderate to high light intensity. Although it can tolerate low light levels, the plant's growth rate is slowed in such conditions. It is also important to note that exposure to direct sunlight for extended periods can cause leaf discoloration.
Temperature Requirements: This species of plant is best grown in slightly cooler temperatures of between 15°C to 25°C. This temperature range promotes adequate photosynthesis without causing excessive water loss through transpiration. Extreme temperature values are not suitable for the growth of Letrouitia parabola, as they can lead to plant damage and stunted growth.
Water Requirements: The plant requires a constant supply of water for its optimal growth. Soil moisture should be maintained at approximately 80 percent to 90 percent field capacity. While trying to achieve this moisture level, it is important to avoid waterlogging as it can cause root rot and other diseases.
Soil Requirements: Letrouitia parabola prefers well-drained and nutrient-rich soils. The soil pH should range between 5.5 and 7.5. Soils of this pH range provide optimal nutrient availability necessary for the plant's growth. The plant also prefers soils that are high in organic matter. Soil compaction should be minimized as it can affect root growth and reduce water uptake.
Nutrient Requirements: The plant requires adequate amounts of macronutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium for its proper growth. These nutrients are essential for photosynthesis and the synthesis of DNA, protein, and cell membranes. Therefore, soil fertility should be maintained by applying appropriate amounts of fertilizers.
Air Humidity: To promote proper growth, Letrouitia parabola requires moderate to high air humidity levels. The optimal air humidity range for the growth of this plant is between 50 percent to 70 percent. High air humidity levels enhance water uptake and promote turgor pressure, leading to increased growth rates.
Cultivation
Letrouitia parabola is a lichen species that grows best in a natural habitat. It prefers to grow on rocks and trees in areas with high humidity, good air circulation, and moderate to low light intensity. If you intend to cultivate it, you can try to replicate its natural environment by creating an indoor or outdoor garden space that meets these conditions. For this type of lichen, cultivation on artificial substrates is not yet feasible.
Watering Needs
Letrouitia parabola is extremely sensitive to water. It does not have roots and absorb moisture from the environment. Overwatering can cause damage to its thalli, leading to deterioration and death of the plant. Therefore, you should ensure that the plant remains moist, but not soaked, at all times. It would be best to rely on natural rainfall and humid conditions to hydrate your plant.
Fertilization
Letrouitia parabola obtains its nutrients mainly from the dust, minerals, and organic matter in the air. It does not require any specific fertilization. However, adding small amounts of organic material in the form of leaf litter or wood chips to the substrate can help create a suitable environment for some lichen species, including Letrouitia parabola.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Letrouitia parabola because it is a slow-growing lichen with a relatively low growth rate. Its thalli form in a circular pattern and do not require trimming or shaping. However, be mindful of any debris or dead plant material that may fall on the thallus, as this can block its access to sunlight, leading to reduced photosynthesis and growth.
Propagation of Letrouitia parabola (Nyl.) R. Sant. & Hafellner
Letrouitia parabola (Nyl.) R. Sant. & Hafellner can be propagated using two main methods: vegetative propagation and sexual propagation.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation involves producing new plants from vegetative parts such as stem, leaves, or roots. This method is often used for plant species that do not produce viable seeds or are difficult to grow from seeds.
The easiest way to vegetatively propagate Letrouitia parabola is through the division of the thallus. The thallus is divided into smaller portions, each containing a few leafy branches and rhizoids. These small portions are then transplanted into new containers with suitable soil and placed under indirect sunlight. The plants require a temperature of approximately 20-25 °C and high humidity levels for optimal growth.
Sexual Propagation
Sexual propagation involves producing new plants from seeds. Letrouitia parabola produces tiny seeds that are dispersed by wind and rain. The seeds require specific conditions for germination, which include a moist environment and a temperature range of 15-25 °C.
Seeds of Letrouitia parabola can be directly sown in a seedbed or container filled with suitable soil. The seeds should be scattered thinly and covered with a thin layer of soil. This layer should remain moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes around 3-4 weeks. Once the seedlings have grown to around 5 cm tall, they can be transplanted into individual containers filled with suitable soil and placed under indirect sunlight. The plants require a temperature of approximately 20-25 °C and high humidity levels for optimal growth.
Disease and Pest Management for Letrouitia Parabola (Nyl.) R. Sant. & Hafellner
Letrouitia parabola (Nyl.) R. Sant. & Hafellner is a lichen species, and lichens are generally resistant to many diseases and pests. However, there are still some factors that can affect their growth and health.
Common Diseases
Lichens, including Letrouitia parabola, are susceptible to pollution and changes in climate, which can lead to discoloration, growth reduction, and even death. In some cases, lichens can also be infected by parasitic fungi.
Discoloration: Lichens can change their color due to air pollution caused by chemicals emitted by industrial plants and vehicles. To manage this, planting the lichens in a clean air environment is important. Controlling the activities that lead to pollution can also help to protect the lichen.
Growth Reduction: Changes in climate, such as decreasing humidity, can lead to stunted growth of lichens. To manage this issue, it is important to keep the climate and environment stable. For example, the use of mist to maintain the humidity of the lichen’s environment can be helpful in improving its growth.
Parasitic Fungi: Some lichens may be infected with parasitic fungi, which can cause damage to the lichen thallus. Infected thalli will show spots and sometimes necrosis. Fungi can be destroyed using fungicides. The best way to prevent the invasion of parasitic fungi is by maintaining a clean environment for the lichen and avoiding contamination from other infected lichens.
Common Pests
Lichen species such as Letrouitia parabola are not usually plagued by pests. However, it is important to take care of their environment to prevent damage by insecticides.
Contamination: Contamination from other infected lichen species can affect the health of Letrouitia parabola. To manage this, it is crucial to ensure that the surrounding areas are free from sick lichens and other potential sources of contamination.
Conclusion
Letrouitia parabola is a beautiful lichen species that requires minimal attention for its healthy growth. However, maintaining a clean environment and monitoring possible diseases and pests can help ensure the health of the plant.
