Overview of Squamarina crassa (Hudson) Poelt
Squamarina crassa, also known as Irish Scale Lichen or Borer Scale Lichen, is a species of lichen that belongs to the family Teloschistaceae. It is found commonly in Ireland, the United Kingdom, southern Europe, and North America and grows on a range of substrates, including bark, rock, and exposed limestone. Borer Scale Lichens usually grow gregariously, forming large, rounded rosettes on a substrate, and are often mistaken for fungi or mosses.
General Appearance of Squamarina crassa (Hudson) Poelt
The rosettes of Squamarina crassa are typically 2-5 cm in diameter, grey to bluish-grey in colour, and composed of tightly packed lobes that are covered in small, warty bumps. The upper surface of each lobe has a thin, smooth cortex covered with a layer of white pruina that gives the lobes a powdery appearance. The basal surface of the lobes is attached to the substrate, and the lichen propagates vegetatively by fragmentation of the thallus. It reproduces sexually by the production of apothecia, small cup-shaped structures that are raised about 1mm above the thallus surface.
Uses of Squamarina crassa (Hudson) Poelt
Historically, Borer Scale Lichen was used in the production of pigments for dyeing wool and silk, particularly a rich brownish-red colour. It was also used to colour wood and to treat leather before tanning. However, due to over-harvesting and habitat loss, the collecting and use of Squamarina crassa is no longer widespread. Recently, there has been interest in the potential medicinal properties of Borer Scale Lichen. Studies have shown that it contains compounds with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that may be useful in the development of new drugs and medical treatments.
In conclusion, Squamarina crassa is a unique and interesting lichen species that offers many different uses and qualities. Whether for its rich pigments in dyeing or its therapeutic properties, this plant has been studied and valued for generations. Its presence on various substrates adds to the biodiversity wherever it grows, and the species' contribution to its environment should not be underestimated.
Light Requirements
Squamarina crassa is a lichen plant that requires indirect light or partial shade. It cannot survive in areas with direct sunlight exposure due to its delicate nature.
Temperature Requirements
The typical temperature range for the growth of Squamarina crassa is between 10 to 20 degrees Celsius. It can grow in colder temperatures but the growth rate is slower compared to the optimal temperature range. However, Squamarina crassa cannot survive in extremely high temperatures or hot environments due to its sensitivity.
Soil Requirements
As a lichen plant, Squamarina crassa does not have roots nor does it require soil to grow. Instead, it is a symbiotic organism consisting of a fungus and an algal partner. It grows on the surfaces of rocks, tree bark, and other substrates. It can tolerate a broad range of pH conditions but prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH.
Cultivation
Squamarina crassa is a hardy plant that can survive in various environments. It prefers growing in rocky areas, but it can also grow on trees and rocks and other mediums. It can be cultivated in gardens, balconies, and terraces. The best time to plant Squamarina crassa is in the spring or fall. Before planting, it is essential to ensure the soil's pH level is between 6.5 and 7.5, as the plant thrives in a slightly acidic environment. It is also crucial to ensure that the soil is well-draining, especially during the rainy season when excessive moisture can cause root rot.
Watering Needs
Squamarina crassa is a drought-tolerant plant that does not require constant watering. However, it still needs to be watered regularly. During the dry season, it should be watered twice a week, while during the rainy season, it should be watered once a week. The soil must be moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.
Fertilization
When it comes to fertilization, Squamarina crassa requires minimal feeding. A slow-release fertilizer with balanced nutrients can be used at the beginning of the growing season. Fertilizer application should be done sparingly to avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to stunted growth or leaf burn. Additionally, compost and leaf litter can serve as natural fertilizers for the plant.
Pruning
Pruning Squamarina crassa is only necessary to remove dead or damaged parts of the plant. It is recommended to prune the plant if it is overgrown or crowding other plants. Pruning should be done during the early spring or late fall when the plant is inactive. The pruning cuts should be made at a 45-degree angle using sterilized pruning shears. The removed parts should be discarded, and the pruning equipment should also be sterilized to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Squamarina crassa (Hudson) Poelt
Squamarina crassa is commonly known as crustose lichen that grows on rocks and soil. It belongs to the family of Squamariaceae and is widely distributed in the northern hemisphere. Propagation of Squamarina crassa is possible through various methods that are discussed below:
Vegetative propagation
Vegetative propagation is the most common method for Squamarina crassa, which generally occurs through fragmentation. The thallus of Squamarina crassa becomes fragile, and under different environmental conditions, including human disturbances, it can break into pieces. After fragmentation, each piece can produce a new individual with the same genetic characteristics as its parent. Therefore, vegetative propagation is an efficient and reliable method to propagate Squamarina crassa.
Soredia dispersal
Squamarina crassa also propagated through soredia. Soredia are small, powdery, and asexual reproductive structures that contain both fungal hyphae and green algae. These structures are produced on the thallus surface and can be dispersed through various agents such as wind, water, or animal carrying.
Algae culture
In laboratory conditions, Squamarina crassa can be propagated through the culture of its algal components. The green alga and the fungus live in a symbiotic relationship where the alga provides the fungus with photosynthates, and the fungus provides the alga with mineral nutrients. Therefore, by culturing the algal component under controlled conditions, it is possible to obtain a pure culture and subsequently inoculate Squamarina crassa thalli to propagate the lichen.
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is a viable option for Squamarina crassa. However, it is a complex and time-consuming process. The lichen produces small black spores that develop on the apothecia (fruits). After the spores are mature, they can be collected and used for seed propagation. However, due to the lichen's complex life cycle, seed propagation is not commonly used and requires a sterile laboratory environment.
Disease and Pest Management for Squamarina Crassa
Squamarina crassa is a type of lichen that typically grows on surfaces like trees and rocks. This plant does not have any specific diseases or pests that are commonly found. However, some factors may affect their growth, such as air pollution, drought, and human activities. Here are some suggested disease and pest management practices to keep in mind.
Disease Management
Squamarina crassa is generally resistant to disease, but air pollution can damage its thallus and reduce its growth and vitality. Keeping the air clean and reducing air pollution by controlling industrial emissions, reducing fuel consumption to minimize vehicular traffic, and using eco-friendly products can help reduce the negative effect of air pollution on the plant.
Pest Management
Squamarina crassa might face threats from some pests such as snails and slugs, which feed on the thallus. Additionally, some birds eat the lichen, which can cause significant damage. Avoiding using toxic pesticides, which could also damage essential organisms, is a recommended strategy to manage pests that attack poison-free lichen like Squamarina crassa.
Preventing pest infestation on Squamarina crassa requires maintaining a healthy environment around the plant. This involves regularly cleaning surfaces where the lichen grows, controlling snail and slug populations, and protecting the plant from bird predation.
