Origin of Microcalicium disseminatum
Microcalicium disseminatum is a type of lichen that belongs to the Parmeliaceae family. This lichen can be found in various parts of the world, including Europe, North America, and Asia.Common Names
Microcalicium disseminatum is sometimes referred to as "Scatter-granule lichen" due to its small, scattered, and granular thallus. It does not have many other common names.General Appearance of Microcalicium disseminatum
Microcalicium disseminatum is a small lichen with a diameter of around 2-5 millimeters. It has a scattered and granular thallus, which is usually white to pale grey in color. The thallus has a powdery appearance with rough and scattered granules. It has an abundant and diffuse distribution on smooth bark and rock surfaces.Uses of Microcalicium disseminatum
Microcalicium disseminatum is not commonly used for any particular purpose. However, it is often studied by scientists as a bio-indicator, as it is sensitive to environmental changes. It can be used to assess the air quality and pollution levels in certain areas. Additionally, it is also used as a source of food by certain animals such as reindeer and caribou.Light Requirements
The plant Microcalicium disseminatum (Ach.) Vainio requires moderate to low light for optimal growth. The plant prefers shady places with indirect light, and it can survive in areas with low light intensity. Direct sunlight can cause the plant to dry out; hence it should be avoided.
Temperature Requirements
The plant Microcalicium disseminatum (Ach.) Vainio grows best in temperatures between 18 and 25 degrees Celsius. However, it can tolerate colder temperatures of up to 10 degrees Celsius. In hotter temperatures, the plant can survive but may experience stunted growth and drying out. Thus, the plant grows best in regions with moderate climate.
Soil requirements
The plant Microcalicium disseminatum (Ach.) Vainio can grow in various types of soils, including sandy, loamy, and rocky soils. The plant thrives best in well-drained soils with good aeration and ample organic matter. Constant moisture can cause root rot and affect the plant's growth. Thus, it is recommended to allow the soil to dry before watering the plant. The plant also grows well in slightly acidic to slightly basic soils.
Cultivation
Microcalicium disseminatum is an epiphytic lichen that grows on the bark of trees. It is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions, especially in humid environments. To cultivate this plant, it is important to mimic its natural habitat as much as possible.
You can start by selecting the right tree to grow the lichen on. Trees that are commonly used to grow epiphytic lichens include oak, maple, and willow. Make sure the tree is healthy and has a rough bark that can hold onto the lichen.
Next, you can collect the lichen from the wild by gently scraping it off a tree. You can also purchase lichen fragments from a reputable supplier. Once you have the lichen, attach it to the bark of a tree using a fine nylon mesh or fishing line.
Watering needs
Microcalicium disseminatum does not require much watering since it obtains its nutrients and moisture from the air. However, it is important to ensure that the tree it is growing on receives enough rainfall or irrigation to keep the bark moist. In dry climates, you can mist the lichen with water once a week to prevent it from drying out.
Fertilization
Microcalicium disseminatum does not require fertilization since it obtains all its nutrients from the air. However, you can lightly dust the lichen with a water-soluble fertilizer to promote growth. Use a spray bottle to lightly mist the lichen with the fertilizer solution once a month.
Pruning
Microcalicium disseminatum does not require pruning since it grows slowly and does not produce many branches. However, you can remove any dead or damaged fragments of the lichen to keep the plant healthy and attractive.
Propagation of Microcalicium disseminatum
Microcalicium disseminatum is a fascinating plant that has a unique propagation method. The plant propagates vegetatively using small fragments of its thallus. This method of vegetative propagation allows the plant to quickly colonize new areas without having to wait for the spores to germinate.
Propagation Methods
The propagation of M. disseminatum can be done in several ways. The most common method is by breaking off small fragments of the thallus and transplanting them into a new location. This can be done by carefully removing a small portion of the thallus and placing it on a suitable substrate, such as a moist rock or log.
Another propagation method is by using a liquid culture medium to grow the plant. In this method, small fragments of the thallus are placed in a liquid culture medium and allowed to grow. This method is useful when large quantities of the plant are needed.
Propagation of M. disseminatum can also be done by spores. However, this method is not commonly used due to the slow germination and growth rate of spores.
Conclusion
The vegetative propagation of M. disseminatum is an efficient method that allows the plant to quickly colonize new areas. This method is easy to implement and is commonly used to propagate the plant in nurseries and other locations. Although spore propagation is less common, it can still be used to propagate the plant for research purposes and to create new strains of the plant.
Disease Management
Microcalicium disseminatum, like other plants, can be affected by various diseases. The most common ones include:
- Anthracnose: A fungal disease that causes leaf spotting, stem blight, and twig dieback. To manage, prune and dispose of infected plant parts and use fungicides as recommended.
- Brown spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots with yellow halos on the leaves. Remove and dispose of infected plant parts and increase air circulation around the plant to prevent the disease from spreading.
- Root rot: A disease caused by overwatering and poor drainage. The plant's roots will rot, leading to stunted growth, yellow leaves, and wilting. To manage, avoid overwatering, improve soil drainage, and use fungicides as recommended.
Pest Management
Microcalicium disseminatum can also be attacked by pests that include:
- Mites: These tiny creatures feed on the plant's sap, which causes yellowing and wilting of leaves. To manage, use insecticidal soaps and oils or biological controls such as predator mites and ladybug beetles.
- Scale insects: These pests look like small, raised bumps on leaves and stems. They suck sap from the plant and cause gradual wilting and yellowing. To manage, use horticultural oils and insecticidal soaps or mechanical methods like pruning and handpicking.
- Mealybugs: These soft, white insects feed on the plant's sap and excrete a sticky substance that promotes fungal growth. To manage, use insecticidal soaps and oils or biological controls like lacewing larvae and ladybird beetles.
Regular inspection and good plant maintenance practices like pruning and proper watering are essential in preventing and managing diseases and pests in Microcalicium disseminatum.
