Overview of Microthelia wallrothii (Hepp) Rehm
Microthelia wallrothii (Hepp) Rehm is a species of lichenized fungus in the family Graphidaceae. It is commonly known as the "flaky shadow lichen" or "crumb lichen". This lichen species is widely distributed in North America, Europe, and Asia and can be found growing in both humid and arid areas.
Appearance of Microthelia wallrothii (Hepp) Rehm
Microthelia wallrothii (Hepp) Rehm has a distinctive appearance. It forms small, crust-like patches that have a cracked or flaky appearance, hence its common name "flaky shadow lichen". The thallus is beige to brown in color and often has a white edge. The apothecia, which are the reproductive structures, are sunken and often surrounded by a thin white rim.
Uses of Microthelia wallrothii (Hepp) Rehm
Microthelia wallrothii (Hepp) Rehm is not known for any significant economic or medicinal uses. However, it serves as an indicator of air quality and ecological health as it is sensitive to air pollution and changes in the environment. It also plays a role in supporting biodiversity by providing habitat and food for insects and other small organisms.
Growth Conditions for Microthelia wallrothii
Microthelia wallrothii is a type of lichen that typically thrives in harsh environments. Here are some factors to consider for optimal growth:
Light Requirements
Microthelia wallrothii requires moderate to high light intensity for survival and growth. This lichen typically grows on rocks, tree trunks, and other exposed surfaces and benefits from direct sunlight or partially shaded conditions.
Temperature Requirements
Microthelia wallrothii can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but they typically grow best in cooler temperatures. The optimal temperature range for this plant is between 10°C to 25°C, and they can survive temperatures as low as -10°C during the winter months. Temperatures that are too high can cause dehydration, which may stunt their growth or even cause their death.
Soil Requirements
Microthelia wallrothii does not require soil for growth but typically grows best in rocky and mineral-rich environments. They can also grow on acidic surfaces such as bark and rocks and even tolerate metal contamination in some cases. However, the lichen is sensitive to pollutants like sulfur dioxide, which can damage their growth and inhibit reproduction.
Moisture Requirements
Microthelia wallrothii requires a high level of moisture to thrive and grow. It needs a consistently moist environment to absorb water, and this is typically achieved through rain or wet fog. Humid conditions and moist places like river banks or shaded areas are the ideal conditions for this plant to grow. However, excessive moisture can lead to fungal or bacterial growth that may harm the lichen.
Nutrient Requirements
Microthelia wallrothii can synthesize its food from photosynthesis, although it depends on minerals that are present in the environment for its growth. High levels of nitrogen and phosphorous found in animal waste, fertilizer runoff or atmospheric deposition can cause competitive exclusion of lichen species. Therefore, Microthelia wallrothii predominantly occupies areas that lack high levels of nutrients in the available environment.
Cultivation Methods of Microthelia wallrothii
Microthelia wallrothii is a low-maintenance plant that can easily be grown at home. Preferably, the plant should be grown in a hanging basket or a pot with well-draining soil. The plant prefers a bright area but avoid placing it under direct sunlight.
Watering Needs for Microthelia wallrothii
Microthelia wallrothii requires regular watering to keep the soil moist but not wet. Overwatering can cause the roots to rot. During the growing season, watering should be done once a week. During the winter months, the frequency of watering can be reduced to preserve the health of the plant.
Fertilization of Microthelia wallrothii
Fertilizing the Microthelia wallrothii once a month is ideal during the growing season. Using a balanced fertilizer can help to promote the growth of the plant. Fertilization can be decreased during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
Pruning of Microthelia wallrothii
Pruning of the Microthelia wallrothii may not always be necessary but can be done to improve the overall appearance of the plant. Dead and dry leaves should be removed to allow for new growth. Cut off any stems that are turning yellow or brown. Regular pruning of the plant can also help to maintain its size and shape.
Propagation of Microthelia Wallrothii (Hepp) Rehm
Microthelia Wallrothii (Hepp) Rehm can be propagated vegetatively or sexually. Below are some propagation methods used for this plant:
Vegatative Propagation
The most common method of propagating Microthelia Wallrothii (Hepp) Rehm is through vegetative propagation using stem cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from the tip of healthy plants during the growing season. Each cutting should be about 8-10cm long and have at least two or three leaves attached.
The cuttings should be dipped in a rooting hormone to encourage root development. They can then be inserted into a sterile potting mix, preferably containing peat and perlite in a 1:1 ratio. The cuttings should be kept in a humid environment with regular misting until they have rooted and established enough to be transplanted.
Division of Rhizomes
Microthelia Wallrothii (Hepp) Rehm can also be propagated through rhizome division. This method is particularly useful for established plants that have become too large or congested.
To propagate through rhizome division, the parent plant should be carefully dug out of the soil and the rhizomes separated using a sterilized sharp knife. Each rhizome should have at least one healthy shoot and a viable root system. The divided segments can then be potted in new containers.
Sexual Propagation
Microthelia Wallrothii (Hepp) Rehm can be propagated through sexual reproduction by seed. The plant produces small, inconspicuous flowers that produce tiny, black seeds. The seeds should be collected when ripe and sown in a potting mix that is moist and sterile. The container should be kept in a shaded area with temperatures around 21-24°C. The seeds will germinate in 2-4 weeks and can be transplanted into individual containers as they grow.
Disease Management
Microthelia wallrothii is generally a healthy plant that is not susceptible to many diseases. However, it can be affected by some fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot.
Powdery mildew can be identified by the appearance of white, powdery spots on the leaves and stems. To manage this disease, it is recommended to remove and dispose of the infected plant material and to improve air circulation around the plant. Fungicidal sprays can also be used.
Root rot is caused by fungus in the soil that thrives in wet or poorly drained conditions. It can cause the plant to wilt, yellow, and eventually die. To prevent root rot, ensure that the plant is not overwatered and that the soil has proper drainage. If the plant is already infected, it may be necessary to replant it in fresh soil and adjust watering habits.
Pest Management
Microthelia wallrothii may also be affected by pests such as spider mites and mealybugs.
Spider mites can be identified by the presence of small, red or brownish spots on the leaves. They are difficult to see with the naked eye but can be managed by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. It is also important to regularly dust the leaves to prevent spider mites from settling on the plant.
Mealybugs can be identified by the appearance of white, cottony masses on the leaves and stems. They can be managed by rubbing them off with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol or by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap.
Regularly inspecting the plant for any signs of disease or pests and promptly addressing any issues that arise can help keep Microthelia wallrothii healthy and thriving.
