Plant Description:
Lithographa tesserata (DC.) Nyl. is a species of lichen in the family Teloschistaceae. It can be found in Europe and Asia. The lichen is also known by the common names of Golden Script lichen, Script lichen, Marbled Script lichen, and Tesserate Map Lichen.
Appearance:
Lithographa tesserata has distinctive golden-yellow patches on its surface with a white marbled pattern clearly visible under a hand lens. The lichen is crustose and flaky, with a thick thallus that can measure up to 10cm in diameter. It has black apothecia with a raised rim and can often be found growing on calcareous rocks, stone walls, and gravestones.
Uses:
Lithographa tesserata is not known for having any practical uses but is used for its decorative purposes in some contexts. It has been used in creating art, such as ink prints, and for decoration in gardens or outdoor spaces. It is also commonly used in lichenology research to study their ecology, physiology, and diversity.
Conclusion:
Lithographa tesserata is a visually attractive lichen that can be found in Europe and Asia, characterized by its golden-yellow and white marbled patches. It is commonly used in research and decoration but not known for having practical uses.
Light Requirements
Lithographa tesserata grows best in bright, indirect light or partial shade. Direct sunlight can result in leaf scorching, while insufficient light can result in stunted growth and leaf drop.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for Lithographa tesserata is between 65-75°F (18-24°C). The plant can tolerate slightly lower temperatures if the humidity is high. Avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below 50°F (10°C) or above 90°F (32°C) as both extremes can be detrimental to growth.
Soil Requirements
Lithographa tesserata thrives in well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH range of 6-6.5. A good mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite can provide an ideal growing medium for this plant. Fertilize the plant every month with a balanced houseplant fertilizer during the growing season.
Cultivation Methods for Lithographa tesserata (DC.) Nyl.
Lithographa tesserata (DC.) Nyl. is a lichenized plant that grows on bark, wood, or rocky substrates in moist areas such as forests, riversides, or streams. To cultivate this species, you can collect a small fragment of thallus from its natural habitat and attach it to the desired substrate (e.g., piece of bark or wood). Ensure that the substrate is clean, free from pollutants, and adequately moist. Place the substrate in an area with diffused light, ideally at temperatures between 10-25°C.
Watering Needs for Lithographa tesserata (DC.) Nyl.
Since Lithographa tesserata (DC.) Nyl. gets most of its nutrients and moisture from the air, it requires minimal watering. However, try to keep the substrate slightly moist at all times, as desiccation can negatively affect its growth. You can use distilled water or rainwater to moisten the substrate and avoid the use of tap water, which may contain chemicals that can harm this species.
Fertilization for Lithographa tesserata (DC.) Nyl.
Since Lithographa tesserata (DC.) Nyl. is a lichenized plant, it does not require fertilizers or additional nutrients as it can obtain all its nutrients from the air. Using fertilizers or other plant feeds may harm this species and is hence not recommended.
Pruning for Lithographa tesserata (DC.) Nyl.
Pruning is not required for Lithographa tesserata (DC.) Nyl. since it is a slow-growing plant that develops gradually and continuously. Any damage to the thallus may negatively impact its growth, so it is essential to handle it with care. However, if some part of the thallus is damaged, try to remove it with gentle rubbing to prevent further harm to the plant.
Propagation of Lithographa Tesserata
Lithographa tesserata (DC.) Nyl. is a type of lichen that can be propagated through different methods. Propagation is important in the growth of new plant material to maintain or increase plant numbers in a population.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation is the process of growing new plants from vegetative parts of the existing plant, such as leaves, stems, and roots. This method is commonly used in lichens such as Lithographa tesserata, which reproduce vegetatively through fragmentation. In this process, a small part of the lichen is broken off and can grow into a new plant when attached to a suitable substrate. The substrate must provide the right growing conditions that sustain the lichen’s growth and development.
Soredia Propagation
Soredia propagation is another method of propagation that is common in lichens such as Lithographa tesserata. Soredia are small, dust-like particles that contain both the algal and fungal components of the lichen organism. These particles are produced asexually and can be dispersed by wind or water to produce new lichen thalli. This method of propagation leads to the creation of genetically identical lichen thalli.
Sexual Propagation
Sexual propagation involves the production of spores that contribute to the development of new plant material. In Lithographa tesserata, sexual propagation occurs when a fungal spore unites with an algal cell to form a new lichen thallus. While the sexual process is the most effective method of propagation, it is challenging and requires special conditions that are not often readily available in the environment.
In conclusion, the propagation of Lithographa tesserata is possible through vegetative, soredia and sexual methods. Determining the right method of propagation depends on the environmental conditions, the lichen species, and other factors affecting the process.
Disease and Pest Management for Lithographa Tesserata
Lithographa tesserata is an evergreen lichenized species that grows on the bark of trees and wood. This species is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it is not entirely immune. Here are some of the most common diseases and pests that might affect Lithographa tesserata and suggested ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Lithographa tesserata may be affected by various lichen diseases, including:
- Lichenicolous fungi: These fungi can invade lichens and cause changes in their morphology, affecting their ability to photosynthesize. The best way to control the spread of lichenicolous fungi is to remove affected portions of the lichen and ensure proper sanitation of equipment used for pruning.
- Lichen spot diseases: These are small spots that appear on the thallus and are generally caused by bacteria or fungi. Avoiding over-watering and keeping the plant in well-ventilated areas may help prevent the spread of these diseases. Affected areas can be removed, but it is difficult to control these diseases entirely.
Common Pests
Some of the most common pests that affect Lithographa tesserata include:
- Scale insects: These insects can attach to the thallus and cause yellowing, wilting, and even death. The best way to control scale insects is to prune and remove affected parts. Application of neem oil or insecticidal soap may also help manage infestations. However, care should be taken to avoid harming beneficial insects that feed on these pests.
- Spider mites: These pests thrive in hot and dry conditions. They can cause the leaves to turn yellow, and their webs can be seen on the plant's surface. Controlling humidity levels and applying insecticidal soap or neem oil may help manage spider mites.
- Snails and slugs: These pests feed on the thallus of Lithographa Tesserata and can cause severe damage. To prevent snails and slugs, maintain a clean and tidy garden area. Use of copper barriers around the plant or handpicking the pests may help control infestations.
By following these measures, one can effectively control the spread of diseases and pests in Lithographa tesserata. Proper sanitation measures, along with timely pruning and treatment of infestations, can help maintain the health and vigor of this remarkable plant.
