Overview
Melanelia sorediata (Ach.) Goward & Ahti is a species of lichen that belongs to the family Parmeliaceae. This lichen can be found in North America, particularly in the Pacific Northwest region, where it commonly grows on the bark of trees in old-growth forests.
Common Names
Some common names for Melanelia sorediata include "black-stemmed pseudephebe," "black-petaled key lichen," and "black-footed ramalina."
Appearance
Melanelia sorediata has a distinct appearance that makes it easy to identify. It is a foliose lichen with a black lower surface and a greenish-gray or brown upper surface. The lichen is composed of a branched thallus that forms a rosette shape. The edges of the thallus are incised, and it has a distinct fringed appearance. Its apothecia, which are the fruiting bodies, are black, with a raised disc and a rim that is paler than the rest of the thallus.
Uses
Melanelia sorediata lichen has been traditionally used by some First Nations communities for various medicinal purposes. It is believed to have antimicrobial properties and is used to treat colds and respiratory infections. Additionally, it is used by some tribes as a dye to color baskets and other materials. However, there is currently little scientific research on the efficacy or safety of using Melanelia sorediata lichen for these purposes.
Light Requirements
Melanelia sorediata is an epiphytic lichen species that thrives in shaded areas. The species typically grows on the bark of deciduous trees. It requires moderate to low levels of light to grow. Direct exposure to sunlight can be harmful to this species. The ideal light intensity for the growth of Melanelia sorediata is between 50 and 500 footcandles.
Temperature Requirements
The temperature requirements for Melanelia sorediata are specific and must be maintained within a particular range. The species generally grows in cool climates and prefers temperatures between 10 and 20°C. The species is cold-tolerant and can survive at temperatures as low as -20°C. However, high-temperature tolerance is low, and the species cannot withstand temperatures above 30°C.
Soil Requirements
Melanelia sorediata is not a vascular plant and does not require soil to grow. The species is an epiphytic lichen and grows on the surface of tree trunks. The tree's bark provides a substrate for the lichen to attach itself and obtain nutrients. The species can grow in areas with varying soil types, including acidic, basic, and nutrient-poor soils. They can tolerate a wide range of soil pH, from approximately 3.0 to 8.0.
Cultivation Methods
Melanelia sorediata (Ach.) Goward & Ahti, commonly known as Black Reindeer Lichen, is found growing on soil, rocks, and trees in boreal and arctic regions. If you wish to cultivate this plant, you need to have the appropriate conditions suitable for its growth. Black Reindeer Lichen requires a specific type of substrate. You can mimic this substrate by mixing sand, peat moss, and soil to make the soil more porous. The plant can be grown in a container or directly planted in the ground. Black Reindeer Lichen needs to have access to sunlight, and the seasonal and environmental conditions should match the lichens' natural habitat.
Watering Needs
Black Reindeer Lichen has adapted to the harsh climatic conditions of the Arctic and boreal regions, and as a result, the plant does not require frequent watering. In fact, over-watering can lead to the development of molds, fungi, and root rot. It is recommended that you water the plant every two weeks, or when you notice the soil is dry. You should also ensure that the soil drainage is adequate to prevent stagnant water, which could lead to the plant's death.
Fertilization
As a lichen, Melanelia sorediata grows symbiotically with photosynthetic algae. Therefore, you do not need to worry about fertilizing the plant, as the photosynthetic algae provide the necessary nutrients for the lichen's growth. In fact, applying fertilizer could harm the plant and disrupt its symbiotic relationship with the photosynthetic algae.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Black Reindeer Lichen, as its growth is slower than other plant species, and it does not reach excessive sizes. However, removing any dead or damaged parts of the plant can help improve the lichen's overall health. If the plant develops any algae growths or parasitic plants, you should remove them immediately to prevent further damage to the lichen's health.
Propagation of Melanelia sorediata (Ach.) Goward & Ahti
Melanelia sorediata (Ach.) Goward & Ahti, commonly known as black-eyed greenshield lichen, is primarily propagated using asexual methods. The propagation methods include fragmentation, soredia, and isidia.
Fragmentation
Fragmentation is the most common method of asexual propagation in Melanelia sorediata. In this method, parts of the lichen thallus break off or detach from the main body and develop into new individuals. The detached fragments can also be used to propagate the lichen in new habitats.
Soredia
Soredia are small, powdery, asexual propagules that develop on the surface of the lichen thallus. These propagules contain both algal and fungal cells and can be dispersed by wind or water to new habitats. When the soredia land on a suitable substrate, they germinate and develop into new individuals.
Isidia
Isidia are small, finger-like outgrowths that develop on the surface of the lichen thallus. These outgrowths contain both algal and fungal cells and can detach from the main body to form new individuals. Isidia are relatively less common in Melanelia sorediata as compared to other lichen species.
Overall, the asexual propagation methods in Melanelia sorediata ensure the survival and dissemination of the species in various habitats. However, sexual reproduction also plays a critical role in the maintenance of genetic diversity and the evolution of new traits in the species.
Disease Management
The Melanelia sorediata plant is generally healthy and isn't usually affected by many diseases. However, like all plants, it is prone to certain diseases. One of the most common diseases that affects this plant is the lichen decline disease, which is usually caused by environmental stressors.
The best way to manage lichen decline disease is to ensure that the plant is well-hydrated. You should water the plant regularly, especially during the hot and dry seasons. Also, you should avoid applying fertilizers that contain high levels of ammonia to the plant, as this can stress the plant and make it vulnerable to diseases. Additionally, you can use fungicides to prevent the spread of diseases.
Pest Management
The Melanelia sorediata plant is less likely to be infested by pests than other plants. However, it can still be infested by various pests, including spider mites and scale insects. Spider mites are tiny insects that feed on the plant's sap, which can weaken the plant and make it vulnerable to diseases.
You can manage spider mites by using insecticides or by introducing natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings. Scale insects can also infest the plant, and they are usually difficult to detect until they have caused significant damage to the plant.
To manage scale insects, you should regularly inspect your plant for signs of infestation. If you detect an infestation early, you can remove the affected parts of the plant to prevent the spread of the pests. Additionally, you can use insecticides, sprays, and other chemical treatments to get rid of the pests. You should also keep the plant well-ventilated and ensure that it's not overcrowded. This will reduce the chances of pests infesting the plant and spreading diseases.
