Origin and Common Names
Micarea globulosella (Nyl.) Coppins is a small, crustose lichen that belongs to the family Pilocarpaceae. It is distributed throughout the temperate regions of the world, including Europe, North America, and Asia. In Europe, it is commonly found in the northern and central regions, while in North America, it is typically found in the northern latitudes. The plant is also known by several common names, including Maroon Eyelash Lichen, Stud Lichen, and Gold Dust Lichen.Appearance
Micarea globulosella is a tiny plant, typically measuring between 0.5 and 1.5 millimeters in diameter. It has a crustose thallus that is grayish-white in color and often speckled with small black dots. The apothecia, which are the fruiting bodies of the lichen, are usually round and convex, measuring between 0.2 and 0.5 millimeters in diameter. They are typically orange to reddish-brown in color, with a slightly raised disc that is covered in small warts. In terms of shape, Micarea globulosella has a lobed or irregular outline, with small, finger-like projections radiating from its center. These projections are covered in tiny, blackish-brown hairs that give the lichen a fuzzy appearance.Uses
Like many lichens, Micarea globulosella is not used extensively in herbal medicine or as a food source. However, it plays an important role in the ecosystem as a pioneer species that helps to colonize new territories. It is often the first plant to establish itself on bare rock or other substrates, paving the way for other species to follow. In addition, Micarea globulosella is used extensively by scientists and researchers as a model organism for studying the genetics and biology of lichens. Its small size and ease of cultivation make it an excellent candidate for laboratory experiments, and its adaptability to harsh environments has made it a valuable tool for studying the effects of climate change on these fascinating organisms.Growth Conditions for Micarea globulosella (Nyl.) Coppins
Light Requirements: Micarea globulosella (Nyl.) Coppins is a shade-loving plant normally found growing in areas with low light levels. It prefers shady locations with minimal direct sunlight exposure. In the laboratory, it can be grown under low-level artificial light sources.
Temperature Requirements: Temperature is also a critical growth factor for Micarea globulosella (Nyl.) Coppins. The ideal temperature range for optimal growth is 10°C - 15°C. At temperatures above or below this range, the plant may not grow or may show slow growth rates.
Soil Requirements: Micarea globulosella (Nyl.) Coppins is usually found growing on bark or other organic substrates. In the laboratory, it can be cultivated on standard artificial substrates such as potato dextrose agar or malt extract agar. It does not require any specific nutrient requirements and normally grows well on commonly used agar media. Adding organic supplements to the substrate on which the plant is grown may help improve growth rates.
Humidity Requirements: Micarea globulosella (Nyl.) Coppins prefers a slightly humid environment to grow optimally. In dry conditions, the plant is prone to desiccation and may not survive. In the laboratory, adding a moist filter paper to the culture dish can help maintain the required level of humidity.
Aeration Requirements: Micarea globulosella (Nyl.) Coppins requires adequate air circulation to grow properly. Stagnant air may lead to an insufficient supply of carbon dioxide, resulting in poor growth or no growth at all. Therefore, it is essential to provide adequate aeration in the laboratory and other growing environments.
Cultivation
Micarea globulosella can be cultivated in two ways, either by division or by sowing, depending on your preferences and the plant's availability. Division should be done during early spring before new growth appears. Sowing can be done during spring, summer, and early fall seasons.
Watering Needs
Micarea globulosella prefers well-drained soil that does not retain much water. Water the plant once a week, allowing the potting mix to dry out slightly between watering. Avoid over-watering, which may cause root rot and ultimately kill the plant.
Fertilization
Fertilize Micarea globulosella in early spring with a balanced fertilizer, and repeat the process after four weeks. Avoid fertilizing during the winter season as the plant enters a period of dormancy.
Pruning
Pruning Micarea globulosella is not necessary since it is a slow-growing plant, and its natural shape is desirable. However, any diseased or damaged leaves should be removed immediately to prevent the spread of infection to healthy leaves.
Propagation of Micarea Globulosella
Micarea globulosella is a lichenized fungi found on the bark of trees. Propagation of this plant can be accomplished through two methods:
Method 1: Fragmentation
Fragmentation is a common method for propagating lichens, including Micarea globulosella. This method involves breaking apart the thallus of the lichen into smaller pieces and then placing those fragments onto suitable substrates for re-growth.
To propagate Micarea globulosella through fragmentation, cut or break apart the thallus into small pieces using a sharp sterilized blade. It is recommended to use pieces that are at least 2-4 mm in diameter. The ideal substrates for propagating the fragments are pieces of bark, twigs, or wood. The substrates should be clean and free from any other lichens or fungi.
Place the fragments onto the substrates, ensuring that they are in good contact. The fragments should then be kept in a humid environment by covering them with a transparent plastic bag or humidity dome. Keep the substrates moist by spraying them with sterile water on a regular basis.
In about 2-3 weeks, the fragments should start re-growing and spreading onto the substrates. It may take up to 6 months or longer for the fragments to form new thalli. Once the new thalli have formed, they can be transferred onto new substrates if desired.
Method 2: Spores
Propagation of Micarea globulosella can also be achieved through spores. This method involves collecting the spores from mature thalli and then culturing them on suitable growth media.
To collect the spores, take a mature thallus of Micarea globulosella and place it onto a clean piece of paper in a petri dish. Cover the dish and leave it in a humid environment for a few days. The spores will be released from the mature thallus and will settle onto the paper.
Once you have spores, prepare the growth media by mixing together sterilized agar and water. Pour the mixture into sterile petri dishes and allow it to cool and solidify. Carefully transfer the spores onto the surface of the growth media using a sterile needle or spatula.
Place the petri dishes in a humid environment with low to moderate light and temperatures between 10°C to 20°C. Keep the growth media moist by spraying it with sterile water on a regular basis. In 2-4 weeks, small colonies of Micarea globulosella should appear on the growth media. These can be transferred to new growth media or substrates for further growth and development.
Disease Management
One common disease that affects Micarea globulosella is grey mould. This disease is caused by the fungus Botrytis cinerea and is characterized by a grayish-white powdery mold on the plant's leaves and stems. To manage grey mould, it is recommended to remove any infected plant parts immediately and dispose of them. Additionally, ensure that the plant has sufficient air circulation and avoid overwatering to prevent the disease from spreading. Copper-based fungicides may also be applied to control the disease's progress.
Pest Management
A common pest that affects Micarea globulosella is spider mites. These tiny pests suck sap from the plants, causing the leaves to turn yellow and eventually die. To manage spider mites, regular inspection of the plant is necessary. Spider mites thrive in dry conditions, so keeping the plant's moisture level consistent can help prevent a mite infestation. In addition, predatory insects, such as lady beetles and predatory mites, can be introduced to the plant to control the mite population. In cases of severe infestations, an insecticidal soap or neem oil can be used to control and reduce mites' numbers.
