Overview of Schismatomma subattigens
Schismatomma subattigens (Nyl.) Zahlbr. is a species of lichen that belongs to the family Pilocarpaceae. The scientific name of the plant originates from the Greek words "schisma" (meaning split or fissure), "tomme" (meaning incision), and subattigens (meaning almost low or almost short).
General Appearance
Schismatomma subattigens is a foliose lichen that forms loose rosettes. It grows up to 8cm in diameter and has a light gray to brownish coloration. The lichen has a lobed, radiating thallus that resembles a pinwheel. The lobes are approximately 3-6mm wide and have a smooth surface. The underside of the lobes is white or light yellow, bearing numerous rhizines that are important in anchoring the lichen onto the substrate.
Origin and Distribution
Schismatomma subattigens can be found growing on bark, rock, or soil, in warm and humid regions of various continents such as Asia, Africa, Australia, and Oceania. It is commonly found in subtropical and tropical regions. In the United States, it can be found in states such as Hawaii and Florida.
Common Names and Uses
Schismatomma subattigens does not have a widely recognized common name. The lichen is not known to have any significant uses, but its presence on certain substrates can indicate good air quality, as it is sensitive to air pollution. In some cultures, lichens such as Schismatomma subattigens have been used for medicinal purposes, such as treating wounds and digestive problems. However, there is no scientific evidence that supports the efficacy of such treatments.
Light Requirements:
Schismatomma subattigens is an epiphytic lichen that prefers growing in a shady environment in the forest. It grows well under diffused light or partial shade. Direct sunlight should be avoided as it may cause desiccation and damage to the lichen thallus.
Temperature Requirements:
Schismatomma subattigens grows well in cool and humid environments. The temperature range between 10-18°C is optimal for the lichen's growth, with the upper limit being around 20°C. Temperatures above 25°C can cause the lichen to dry out and eventually die. It is therefore essential to maintain moderate temperatures to promote the growth of Schismatomma subattigens.
Soil Requirements:
Being an epiphytic lichen, Schismatomma subattigens does not have any specific soil requirements. However, it requires a substrate that is moist and stable, such as the bark of trees. The bark must be rough and textured as it provides an attachment point for the lichen. The pH of the substrate should be slightly acidic, with a range between 5.5-6.5. Too much alkalinity can cause the lichen to struggle to absorb nutrients, leading to poor growth.
Cultivation Methods for Schismatomma subattigens
Schismatomma subattigens is a lichen that grows on the bark of trees. Therefore, cultivation methods for this plant involve creating conditions that are similar to its natural habitat. One effective way to grow Schismatomma subattigens is to attach a small piece of its host tree's bark into a suitable container.
Watering Needs for Schismatomma subattigens
Being a lichen, Schismatomma subattigens requires less watering than most plants. However, they still need some moisture to grow. It is best to mist the plants lightly with water every week or so, depending on the humidity levels in your area.
Fertilization for Schismatomma subattigens
Lichens are generally self-sufficient when it comes to obtaining nutrients, so fertilization is not necessary for Schismatomma subattigens. However, if you want to give them a little boost, you can use a weak solution of liquid fertilizer and mist it over the lichen. It is best to do this only once or twice a year.
Pruning for Schismatomma subattigens
Schismatomma subattigens does not need pruning since it grows naturally on the bark of trees. However, if the plant becomes too densely populated in a container, you can carefully remove some of them. It's essential to handle it with care and avoid damaging the lichen.
Propagation of Schismatomma subattigens
Schismatomma subattigens is a lichenized fungus commonly found in the tropical and subtropical regions of the world, especially in the Americas. The plant does not have true roots, stems, or leaves, and obtains its nutrients through photosynthesis and absorption from its substrate.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation is not applicable to Schismatomma subattigens since it does not have any specialized vegetative structures such as stolons, rhizomes, or bulbs. However, fragmentation of the thallus due to physical factors or human activities can result in the development of new individuals.
Sexual Propagation
Schismatomma subattigens reproduces sexually by means of spores. The spores are produced in special structures called apothecia, which are disk-shaped and contain asci that house the spores. The spores are either dispersed by wind or water to reach a suitable substrate where they can germinate and establish.
Since Schismatomma subattigens is a lichen, sexual propagation also involves the formation of a mutualistic relationship between a fungal partner and an algal or cyanobacterial partner. The fungal partner produces the apothecia while the photosynthetic partner provides the energy necessary for both partners' survival.
Conclusion
Propagation of Schismatomma subattigens can occur through sexual reproduction via spores and apothecia. Vegetative propagation is not applicable, but fragmentation of the thallus can lead to the development of new individuals.
Disease Management
Schismatomma subattigens is a type of lichen that is generally resistant to diseases. However, in areas with high humidity levels and poor air circulation, fungal diseases can occur. Some common diseases that may affect the plant include lichen spot disease, leaf spot disease, and canker disease.
To manage these diseases, it is important to practice good plant hygiene. This includes removing any diseased or dead plant material and ensuring proper air circulation around the plant. Fungicides can also be used as a preventative measure to control the spread of disease.
Pest Management
Pests are not typically a problem for Schismatomma subattigens. However, in some cases, the plant can be susceptible to spider mites and scale insects. These pests can cause damage to the plant by feeding on the leaves and sucking the sap from the plant.
To manage these pests, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat the affected areas. Additionally, regularly inspecting the plant for pests and promptly addressing any issues can help prevent a widespread infestation.
