Overview
Mycocalicium disseminatum (Ach.) Fink is a lichenized fungus that belongs to the family Caliciaceae. It is commonly known as the scattered felt lichen and is usually found growing on rocks, bark, and occasionally on soil. It has been identified in regions all over the world, including North America, Europe, and Asia.
Description
Mycocalicium disseminatum has a thallus that is thin, smooth, and felt-like. The thallus starts as a small, circular spot and gradually expands to form a crust-like structure on the substrate. When viewed closely, a cottony texture can be seen on the surface of the lichen. The color of the thallus ranges from grayish-green to brownish-gray. The apothecia, which are small, rounded fruiting bodies that contain the lichen's reproductive structures, are usually located at the center of the thallus and have a reddish-brown coloration.
Uses
Mycocalicium disseminatum is not known to have any specific uses. However, like most lichens, it plays a vital role in its ecosystem. It serves as a food source for various animals, including deer and rabbits. In addition, certain compounds present in the lichen have been found to possess antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, which may have potential applications in medicine.
Cultivation
Mycocalicium disseminatum does not have any known cultivation methods. As a lichen, it grows naturally in the wild and is usually found on rocks and bark. Therefore, the most effective way to propagate this lichen is to collect and transfer its spores onto a suitable substrate in the wild.
Light Requirements
The plant Mycocalicium disseminatum (Ach.) Fink typically grows in shaded areas, under the canopy of other plants, trees, or rocks. It prefers diffused light or partial shade and cannot tolerate direct sunlight for extended periods. Therefore, it is best to grow it under a bright, shaded area.
Temperature Requirements
Mycocalicium disseminatum grows well in cool to moderate temperatures. The ideal temperature range for its growth is between 15°C to 25°C. The plant can grow in lower temperatures, but growth may slow down, and elongation may become slow. However, it is not tolerant of extremely high or low temperatures and may die if exposed to temperatures below 0°C.
Soil Requirements
The plant Mycocalicium disseminatum requires well-drained, moderately moist soil. It can grow in soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. It prefers to grow in nutrient-rich soil that contains organic matter. The plant can grow on various substrates, including rocks, acidic soil, and decaying wood. However, it is sensitive to salt and water-logged soil, which can cause root rot and affect its growth negatively.
Cultivation Methods
Mycocalicium disseminatum is an epiphytic species that grows on the bark of trees, rocks, and soil. Therefore, it is best cultivated in an epiphyte mix, which incorporates orchid bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite. The mixture should be well-draining yet able to retain some moisture for longer periods.
It is crucial to provide adequate air circulation around the growing environment to prevent stagnation. This plant also thrives in medium to bright indirect light. Too much sunlight can cause burning on the leaves, while inadequate lighting can cause stunted growth.
Watering Needs
Since Mycocalicium disseminatum is an epiphyte, it is accustomed to receiving minimal nutrients from the environment. Therefore, light and infrequent watering is necessary to maintain optimal health.
It is best to water the plant when the growing medium is close to dry. This can be achieved by sticking a wooden skewer into the mix. If it comes out mostly dry, the plant is ready for watering. Ensure that the water is free of chlorine, fluoride, and other chemicals that can harm this plant species.
Fertilization
Mycocalicium disseminatum requires minimal fertilization. A balanced slow-release fertilizer applied once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) is sufficient. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant season as the plant is less active and can suffer from overfeeding.
Avoid overfertilizing as this can cause salt build-up, leading to fertilizer burn and other diseases.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Mycocalicium disseminatum as it tends to grow as a cushion of tiny branches and leaves. However, it is crucial to remove any dead or yellowing leaves and stems as they can become a breeding ground for pests and diseases.
If the plant outgrows its habitat, you can repot it into a larger container with fresh growing media. Ensure to use care during transplanting as this species is susceptible to root damage.
Propagation of Mycocalicium disseminatum
Mycocalicium disseminatum is a lichenized fungus that is commonly found in North America. Propagating this plant can be done through two methods: vegetative propagation and spore propagation.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation involves taking a small piece of the plant and encouraging it to grow roots. With Mycocalicium disseminatum, this can be done by carefully removing a branch or a piece of thallus (the fleshy, algal-bearing part of the lichen) and planting it in moist soil or on a suitable substrate. Ensure that the substrate is kept moist and in a shaded area. The plant will form new roots and begin to grow within a few weeks.
Spore Propagation
Spore propagation is a more complicated process. It involves collecting spores from the plant and growing them in a suitable environment. Mycocalicium disseminatum spores can be collected by gently rubbing the thallus with a brush and capturing the spores on a piece of paper. These spores can then be transferred to a growing medium such as agar. Ensure that the medium is kept moist and in a shaded area, and within a few weeks, the spores will begin to germinate.
Propagation of Mycocalicium disseminatum can be a challenging task; however, it can produce rewards for enthusiasts who want to grow this unique lichenized fungus.
Disease Management
Mycocalicium disseminatum is generally considered resistant to most plant diseases, but there are a few diseases that can affect it. The most common fungal diseases that might attack this plant are:
- Anthracnose: This disease causes necrotic spots on leaves and stems, which can eventually lead to defoliation. To manage it, removal of infected plant parts and use of fungicides are recommended.
- Botrytis blight: This disease causes grey mold growth on the surface of leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage it, pruning of infected plant parts and use of fungicides are recommended.
- Rust: This disease causes orange-brown leaf spots, which can lead to premature defoliation. Removal of infected plant parts and use of fungicides are recommended.
Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to plant diseases. Maintaining good hygiene and using high-quality planting material can prevent most plant diseases. Regular inspection and monitoring of plants can help identify diseases at an early stage, allowing for timely management.
Pest Management
Mycocalicium disseminatum can be attacked by some common garden pests, which include:
- Aphids: These small insects suck the sap from the leaves and stems of the plant, leading to stunted growth and curling of leaves. Insecticidal soaps, neem oil, and other natural remedies can be used to manage aphids.
- Spider mites: These tiny arachnids suck the sap from the leaves, causing yellowing and stippling of leaves. Regular watering and use of insecticidal soap or neem oil can help manage spider mites.
- Scale insects: These insects pierce through the leaves and stems of the plant, sucking out sap and leading to yellowing and stunting of growth. Use of insecticidal soap or neem oil can help manage the scale insects.
Regular monitoring of plants can help identify pest infestations at an early stage, allowing for timely management. Use of natural remedies and insecticides specific to the pest can help manage their populations. Maintaining good plant health by providing them with sufficient water, nutrients, and sunlight can also help prevent pest infestations.
