Overview
Micarea melanobola (Nyl.) Coppins is a species of lichen that belongs to the family Pilocarpaceae. This lichen is a crustose species, which means it grows tightly attached to its substrate.Description
Micarea melanobola has a dark brownish-black color, which varies slightly depending on the lighting conditions. Its thallus is thin and smooth, and it ranges in size from 0.1-1.0 mm in diameter. The apothecia (reproductive structures) of this lichen are also blackish-brown, and they can be either raised or level with the surface of the thallus.Habitat and Distribution
Micarea melanobola are typically found growing on bare, exposed, calcareous rock, siliceous rock, and on concrete in urban and rural habitats. This lichen species is widely distributed throughout the globe, including Europe, Asia, North America, and Australia.Uses
Micarea melanobola is not known to have any specific uses in traditional medicine or for commercial purposes. However, it plays an important ecological role in its environment by acting as a primary producer in its ecosystem.Common Names
There are no commonly known specific common names for Micarea melanobola, but lichens in general are often referred to as "moss" or "lichens".Light Requirements
Micarea melanobola thrives in partially shaded to shaded areas. It prefers areas with low light intensity conditions such as under the canopy of trees and shrubs or in shaded rocky areas. Direct sunlight may cause the lichen to dry out, resulting in reduced growth and survival.
Temperature Requirements
This lichen species prefers cool to cold temperatures and is commonly found in cooler climates such as boreal forests and alpine regions. The optimal temperature range for growth varies between 5°C to 20°C, but it can grow in temperatures ranging from as low as -2°C to as high as 25°C.
Soil Requirements
Micarea melanobola is a lichen species that is commonly found growing on rocks with exposed acidic surfaces such as granite, sandstone and basalt. The acidity of the substrate is important for the lichen's growth and survival. A pH range between 2-5 is ideal for Micarea melanobola growth. The presence of a thin layer of organic matter on the substrate also provides necessary nutrients for the lichen's growth.
Cultivation Methods
Micarea melanobola is a lichen that grows naturally, mainly on the bark of trees. To cultivate it, first, you need a suitable tree with a rough bark. Tree bark must be adequately cleaned to improve the growth of the lichen. Take a small piece of lichen and place it onto the cleaned bark section. Make sure to keep the lichen moist until it attaches properly to the bark.
Watering Needs
Micarea melanobola is a low-maintenance lichen that doesn't require watering, as it can absorb small amounts of moisture from the air and surroundings. Therefore, It's important to ensure the lichen is placed in an area that receives adequate moisture.
Fertilization
Micarea melanobola naturally grows on tree bark without any fertilization. Therefore, there is no need to provide any fertilizers or chemical solutions to stimulate growth. However, if you want to add any supplements, please ensure you use only organic fertilizers to avoid damaging the delicate lichen.
Pruning
There is no need for pruning when cultivating Micarea melanobola on the tree bark. However, you can remove any dead or dried lichen from the bark's surface. This practice ensures that there is enough growing space for the green parts of the lichen and improves the aesthetic appearance of the tree's bark.
Propagation of Micarea melanobola
Micarea melanobola is a lichen species that can propagate through two main methods:
Asexual Propagation
Micarea melanobola can reproduce asexually through its fungal spores known as mycobiont. When the spores find suitable partners, they form new lichen. The mycobionts also produce soredia, which are small, powdery aggregations of fungal cells and algal cells that form on the thallus's surface. Soredia can detach from the parent thallus and establish new lichens elsewhere, contributing to asexual propagation.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation is another way to propagate Micarea melanobola. In this method, the lichen propagates when its thallus's fragments detach from the parent thallus and establish new organisms in a different location. For example, human activities, such as walking or dropping objects, can cause fragmentation of the lichen and lead to vegetative propagation.
The propagation of Micarea melanobola happens naturally, and the lichen requires no human intervention, making it an important species in ecological restoration projects.
Disease and Pest Management for Micarea melanobola (Nyl.) Coppins
Micarea melanobola is a lichen species commonly found in North America. Although lichens are generally resistant to most pests and diseases, some factors can affect their growth and development. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Micarea melanobola and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Lichen Hypersensitivity Syndrome: This is an allergic reaction to lichens that can affect some individuals who come into contact with them. Symptoms may include rashes, blisters, and itching. There is no cure for this condition, and the best way to manage it is to avoid contact with the lichen. If you develop symptoms, it is recommended to seek medical attention.
Lichenicolous fungi: These are fungi that grow on lichens and can cause damage to the lichen. Some common lichenicolous fungi that can affect Micarea melanobola include Arthonia, Fellhanera, and Llimoniella. It is recommended to monitor the growth of the lichen and remove any infected parts when necessary.
Pests
Herbivores: Some animals, such as deer and elk, can feed on lichens, including Micarea melanobola. Overgrazing can cause significant damage to lichen populations. It is recommended to limit the number of herbivores that can access the area where the lichen grows, for example, by installing a fence or using other physical barriers.
Invasive species: Invasive plant species that grow in the same area as Micarea melanobola can compete for resources and cause damage to the lichen. It is recommended to remove any invasive species and maintain a balanced ecosystem to prevent their growth.
In summary, while Micarea melanobola is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, certain factors can affect its growth. Monitoring the growth of the lichen and managing any diseases or pests promptly can ensure the continued health of the species.
