Overview:
Protoblastenia calva is a lichenized fungus typically found growing on rocky substrates such as basalt and granite. This plant is a common species in different regions of the world, and it plays a crucial role in ecological systems.
Common Names:
Protoblastenia calva is commonly known as crustose lichen due to its unique growth habit.
Appearance:
Protoblastenia calva is a crustose lichen with a smooth, continuous thallus that adheres tightly to the substrate. It appears as small, rounded patches ranging in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters and exhibiting pale beige or grey color. The thallus is thin, averaging about 100-200 micrometers, and has irregular margin and surface.
Uses:
Protoblastenia calva has no known significant economic or medicinal value to date. Since it adheres tightly to the substrate, its use as a dyeing agent for textiles or cosmetics is limited. However, this species plays a vital role in ecological systems by acting as a pioneer species in primary succession on bare rock surfaces. It also contributes to soil formation by releasing substances that enhance nutrient uptake and acts as a carbon sink, absorbing atmospheric carbon dioxide.
Light Requirements
Protoblastenia calva typically grows best in areas that receive moderate sunlight. This lichen can tolerate full sun exposure but prefers partial shade. It is often found in habitats with some tree cover, such as forests, woodland areas, and shaded rocky outcrops.
Temperature Requirements
Protoblastenia calva can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It is often found in cool marine environments, but can also grow on warm and dry rocks. The optimal temperature range for this lichen is between 5 to 15 °C. It can, however, tolerate temperatures as low as ?15 °C and as high as 30 °C, although growth is likely to be slower and less active outside its preferred temperature range.
Soil Requirements
Protoblastenia calva is not picky when it comes to soil. It can grow on a variety of substrates, including rock, soil, bark, and wood. However, it prefers to grow on calcareous rocks, or rocks that are rich in calcium carbonate. This lichen has a remarkable ability to tolerate nutrient-poor substrates, but it typically grows best in well-draining soils or rocks.
Cultivation Methods
Protoblastenia calva is a lichen that grows on rocks and soil in arctic and alpine regions. It is not possible to cultivate this plant in the traditional sense, but you can create an environment in a terrarium or grow room that mimics its natural habitat.
To create a terrarium, you will need a glass container that allows light to penetrate, pebbles, soil, and small rocks. Cover the bottom of the container with 1 to 2 inches of pebbles to provide adequate drainage. Add a 2- to 3-inch layer of soil, and arrange small rocks as desired. Place the lichen on top of the soil, taking care not to damage it.
Watering Needs
Protoblastenia calva is a drought-tolerant plant but needs periodic watering. Take care not to overwater the lichen as this may cause root rot. The frequency of watering depends on the humidity and temperature of your environment. Check the moisture level of the soil every two weeks and water only when the soil feels dry to the touch. Use a spray bottle to moisten the soil, avoiding getting water directly on the lichen.
Fertilization
Protoblastenia calva does not require fertilization as it obtains nutrients from the air and surrounding environment. However, if you are growing the lichen in a terrarium and notice that it is not growing, you can add a tiny amount of pulverized rock once or twice a year to provide trace elements.
Pruning
There is no need to prune Protoblastenia calva as it naturally grows in a low, spreading pattern. However, remove any dead or damaged parts of the lichen using a pair of scissors or tweezers to prevent it from spreading to healthy areas.
Propagation of Protoblastenia Calva
The propagation of Protoblastenia calva can be carried out through two main methods:
Vegetative Propagation
The vegetative method of propagation involves the use of thallus fragments as the propagating material. The thallus fragment of Protoblastenia calva is a resilient and robust vegetative propagating material. It is vital to select mature thalli with clearly defined edges and lesion spotting.
The fragment of thallus should be firm and devoid of water, taking care not to damage the reproductive organs present on the surface. The selected thalli can then be established on appropriate substrates, such as bark and rocks, and regularly moistening them to encourage growth. The attached fragment can multiply slowly before developing into a new individual. This technique is ideal because the chance of propagation by spores is minimal due to the mostly sterile thalli found in Protoblastenia calva populations.
Asexual Propagation
The asexual method of propagation involves the use of soredia. Soredia are powdery grains that originate from the thallus's surface and are composed of both fungal hyphae and algal cells. The soredia act like the seeds of the plant and are responsible for establishing new populations. Tiny fragments of the soredia can be detached from the parent body and laid on moist substrates such as bark or rocks, and watch them develop into new individuals. The soredia usually establish quickly and grow into new thalli within just a few weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Protoblastenia calva (Dickson) Zahlbr.
Protoblastenia calva, commonly known as bald lichen, is generally pest and disease resistant. However, under certain conditions, it can be affected by various pests and diseases that may harm its growth and development. Here are some of the most common diseases and pests that affect Protoblastenia calva and some ways to manage them.
Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Protoblastenia calva is lichenicolous fungi, which are fungi that live on other lichens. These fungi can cause discoloration of the lichen and weaken its structure and growth. To manage lichenicolous fungi, pruning affected parts of the lichen can be helpful. Additionally, ensuring good air circulation around the plant can prevent the fungi from taking hold.
Pests
Protoblastenia calva is not typically affected by pests. However, some insects such as aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites can feed on lichens, reducing their vigor and growth. These insects can be controlled through the use of insecticidal soaps or by physically removing them from the plant using a blast of water. It is important to note that these methods could also harm the lichen, so caution should be taken when applying them.
Overall, Protoblastenia calva is a beautiful and unique plant that requires minimal maintenance and is relatively disease and pest resistant. By taking proactive measures to prevent disease and pest infestation, the plant can thrive and grow in favorable conditions.
