Overview
Mycocalicium rappii Nadv. is a species of lichen that belongs to the family Caliciaceae. This lichen species is found in Asia, particularly in Bhutan.
Common Names
Mycocalicium rappii Nadv. is commonly known as Bhutanese gold dust lichen.
Appearance
Bhutanese gold dust lichen has a crustose thallus, which is typically yellow or green. The thallus is granular or powdery, and it produces small globular fruits that are visible under a hand lens. The apothecia form ring-like growths in the thallus, and they are light-colored when young but often become reddish-brown as they mature.
Uses
Mycocalicium rappii Nadv. has been used in traditional Bhutanese medicine to treat various ailments, such as wounds, skin diseases, fevers, and stomach disorders. The lichen contains various chemical compounds that have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which may explain its medicinal uses. However, further research is necessary to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the plant's traditional uses.
Growth Conditions of Mycocalicium rappii Nadv.
Mycocalicium rappii Nadv. is a rare lichen species that grows on bark of deciduous trees. It is predominantly found in mixed and coniferous forests where the air is humid and the sunlight is dim.
Light Requirements
Mycocalicium rappii Nadv. prefers low-light conditions. Direct sunlight can be harmful and may lead to the death of the lichen. It thrives in areas with partial or dense shade, such as the understory of a forest.
Temperature requirements
The growth of Mycocalicium rappii Nadv. is strongly influenced by temperature. It prefers cool and moist environments with temperatures ranging between 18-25°C (64-77°F). The lichen species can tolerate freezing temperatures, but it may temporarily slow down its growth.
Soil Requirements
Mycocalicium rappii Nadv. grows on the bark of deciduous trees, such as oak, hickory, and maple. It prefers relatively porous and moist bark with low acidity levels (pH of 5-7). The soil type is not a significant factor in the growth of this lichen species since it does not have direct contact with the soil. However, the composition of the bark and environmental factors such as relative humidity can play a role in its growth.
Cultivation methods
Mycocalicium rappii Nadv. is an epiphytic lichen that can be cultivated indoors. To grow it, you need to attach it to a porous substrate such as tree branches or bark. You can also use a terrarium or vivarium to provide the necessary growing conditions. When selecting a substrate or pot, ensure it is large enough to accommodate the lichen. You can also propagate Mycocalicium rappii by division and by sowing spores.
Watering needs
Mycocalicium rappii Nadv. is not an ordinary plant, and therefore, its watering needs are different. As an epiphytic lichen, it absorbs nutrients and moisture from the air through its thallus. Therefore, you should avoid overwatering it, as this will cause the lichen to rot. Instead, use a spray bottle to mist the thallus once or twice a week. Ensure that the terrarium or vivarium is not too humid, as this will increase the risk of fungal growth or bacterial infections.
Fertilization
Mycocalicium rappii Nadv. does not require fertilization. Lichens are self-sufficient and can synthesize their own food through photosynthesis. Furthermore, excessive fertilization can harm the lichen and damage its delicate structure. Instead, maintain the right conditions for the lichen to thrive, including adequate light, moisture, and ventilation.
Pruning
Mycocalicium rappii Nadv. is a slow-growing lichen that does not require regular pruning. Instead, ensure that the terrarium or vivarium is not overcrowded, as this can stifle the lichen's growth and lead to the accumulation of dead plant material. You can remove any dead or damaged branches or branches that are affecting the lichen's growth.
Propagation of Mycocalicium rappii Nadv.
Mycocalicium rappii Nadv., commonly known as the rappi lichen, can be propagated through several methods. These include:
Spore Propagation
Spore propagation is one of the methods used to propagate the rappi lichen. The spores of Mycocalicium rappii Nadv. are produced in small structures called asci, which are found in the apothecia of the lichen. The spores are released from the asci and dispersed by air currents. To propagate using spores, one needs to collect the apothecia from a mature lichen and spread them over a suitable substrate. A substrate can be made by mixing well-rotted leaves, bark, and stones in a 2:2:1 ratio.
Fragment Propagation
Another method of propagating Mycocalicium rappii Nadv. is by using fragments of the lichen. This method is also known as vegetative propagation. One needs to collect small fragments of the lichen and place them on a suitable substrate. A suitable substrate can be prepared using the same materials as for spore propagation.
Culture Propagation
Culture propagation involves taking tissue samples from a lichen and growing them in a laboratory under sterile conditions. This is a complicated method and requires expertise in tissue culture techniques. However, it is the most efficient method of propagation as it allows the production of large quantities of lichen in a short period.
Disease Management for Mycocalicium rappii Nadv.
Mycocalicium rappii Nadv. is a lichen plant that can also get affected by various diseases. However, lichens, including Mycocalicium rappii Nadv., are quite resistant to diseases compared to other plant species. The following are the most common fungal diseases that can affect this plant:
- Anthracnose, which causes leaf spots and stem cankers
- Rust, which causes orange to brown powdery spots on the leaves and stems
- Leaf blight, which causes brown spots on the leaves that later drop off
- Phytophthora root rot, which causes the plant to wilt and eventually die
To manage fungal diseases, it is crucial to keep the lichen plant healthy. Here are a few tips to prevent fungal diseases:
- Ensure that the plant is adequately watered while avoiding overwatering.
- Provide enough ventilation by spacing the plants well to avoid overcrowding.
- Prune off any diseased plant parts and dispose of them properly.
- Provide adequate nutrients to promote strong growth.
- Use appropriate fungicides when necessary based on the type of fungal infection.
Pest Management for Mycocalicium rappii Nadv.
Like other plant species, Mycocalicium rappii Nadv. can also be affected by pests. The following are common pests which can attack this lichen plant:
- Spider mites, which can cause leaf discoloration and webbing
- Mealybugs, which can suck sap causing leaf drop and stunted growth
- Caterpillars, which can chew holes in the leaves and damage the plant's structure
- Scale insects, which can cause yellowing and wilting of leaves
To manage pest, it's important to remain alert, identify symptoms, and take timely action. Here are some tips to prevent and manage pest attacks:
- Maintain plant hygiene by regularly removing dead plant parts and cleaning around the plants.
- Use organic insecticides like neem oil to deter pests and to control pest damage
- Make use of sticky traps around the plant area to attract and trap pests.
- Encourage a healthy and natural ecosystem in your garden by planting companion plants that attract predatory insects, such as ladybugs or parasitic wasps, that can help control pests.
- Inspect the plant regularly for any pest infestations and take necessary steps immediately to prevent them from spreading.
