Overview - Sticta arctica Degel
Sticta arctica Degel, commonly known as Arctic blackfoot or Arctic lungwort, is a lichenized fungus that belongs to the family Peltigeraceae. It is commonly found in Arctic regions such as Alaska, Greenland, and northern Canada.
Appearance
The Thallus of Sticta arctica Degel is foliose and stratified, growing to a diameter of 5-10 cm. It has a blackish-green, shiny surface. The upper surface of the lobes has a blackish-green color, with conspicuous veins. The algal layer is continuous and forms a green layer beneath the surface. The lower surface is brown in color and has small, black hair-like structures that serve as anchors for the lichen in the substrate.
Uses
Sticta arctica Degel is a valuable source of food for reindeer during winter months in the Arctic region. In traditional medicine, it is used to treat respiratory diseases such as tuberculosis and as an expectorant. It contains usnic acid, a potent antimicrobial compound and is used in the preparation of herbal remedies. Studies have shown that Sticta arctica has anti-inflammatory and antitumor effects.
Moreover, as a lichen, it is an essential component of biodiversity in Arctic ecosystems and a crucial indicator of environmental pollution due to its sensitivity to heavy metals and other pollutants.
Light Requirements
Sticta arctica Degel. requires a significant amount of light to grow to its full potential. This plant grows optimally under full sun exposure and can tolerate partial shade, but it will not grow well in full shade.
Temperature Requirements
Sticta arctica Degel. is a cold-hardy plant and can tolerate temperatures as low as -40°C. However, it prefers to grow in cool to cold temperatures between 5-15°C. The plant cannot tolerate high temperatures and should be kept away from direct sunlight during hot days.
Soil and Watering Requirements
Sticta arctica Degel. can grow on a variety of soil types as long as they are well-drained. The plant prefers soils that are slightly acidic with a pH between 5.5-6.5. It can tolerate moderately moist soils but cannot survive in waterlogged or drought-prone soils. This plant is susceptible to root rot disease, so it is essential to avoid overwatering as it can cause severe damage to the plant.
Cultivation
Sticta arctica Degel., commonly known as arctic blacktip, is a lichen plant that grows in the Arctic tundra on rocks, trees, and soil. It is possible to cultivate Sticta arctica Degel. in a controlled environment such as a greenhouse or indoor garden.
To cultivate Sticta arctica Degel., start by obtaining some specimens. You might be able to find them in specialized plant stores or online shops. You can also take a fragment from a mature lichen and carefully attach it to a suitable substrate such as a piece of wood or stone.
Watering Needs
Sticta arctica Degel. does not require frequent watering since it is adapted to the dry and cold environment of the Arctic tundra. Overwatering can cause the lichen to rot or become diseased. However, it is important to keep the environment slightly damp to allow the lichen to absorb moisture and nutrients from the air.
Mist the lichen occasionally with a spray bottle or place a humidity tray near the plant. Remember not to soak the lichen, and always allow any standing water to drain away.
Fertilization
Sticta arctica Degel. does not require any fertilization since it obtains all the essential nutrients from the air and surrounding environment. However, if you notice that the lichen is not growing or appears pale, you might supplement the environment with some nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium.
Avoid using synthetic fertilizers that might harm the lichen. Instead, use natural fertilizers such as organic compost or worm castings.
Pruning
Sticta arctica Degel. does not require any pruning since it is a slow-growing plant that does not outgrow its container quickly. However, if you notice that some parts of the lichen are dead or diseased, you can carefully remove them with scissors or tweezers.
Always sterilize your tools before and after use to avoid spreading any disease or infection.
Propagation of Sticta arctica Degel.
Sticta arctica Degel. is a lichen species that is typically found in arctic regions. It grows naturally on rocks, trees, and soil. Propagation of this plant can be done in two ways:
Vegetative propagation
One of the common methods used to propagate Sticta arctica Degel. is vegetative propagation. This involves the separation of thallus fragments from the parent plant and transferring them to a growing medium. These thallus fragments can be easily split by hand or by using a clean knife. The fragments should then be placed in a moist environment until they develop roots and new shoots. Once the roots and new shoots have developed, they can be planted in a suitable potting mix.
Spore propagation
Another method used to propagate Sticta arctica Degel. is through spore propagation. Spore propagation involves collecting spores from the parent plant and then germinating them on a nutrient-rich medium. The spores can be collected by gently tapping the mature thallus of the plant. The spores are then spread evenly on the surface of the growing medium that is kept moist. It takes around 2-4 weeks for the spores to germinate, and once they do, they can be transferred to a suitable potting mix.
Both of these propagation methods can be used for Sticta arctica Degel. However, the vegetative propagation method is easier and quicker compared to spore propagation.
Disease and Pest Management of Sticta arctica Degel.
Sticta arctica Degel., commonly known as Arctic Shield Lichen, is an epiphytic lichen that is found growing on rocks, trees, and soil in polar and alpine regions. Like all living organisms, this lichen is susceptible to diseases and pests that can affect its health and appearance. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Sticta arctica Degel. and some suggestions on how to manage them.
Common Diseases
One of the common diseases that can affect Sticta arctica Degel. is lichen-spot disease. The disease is caused by a fungal pathogen that attacks the lichen's photobiont, resulting in the formation of white spots on the thallus's surface. Over time, these spots can expand and merge, causing the lichen to lose its greenish-grey color.
To manage lichen-spot disease, it is essential to maintain proper growing conditions for the lichen. It would help if you ensured that the lichen receives adequate light, water, and nutrients. Additionally, you can apply a fungicide to the affected areas to prevent the spread of the disease.
Common Pests
Sticta arctica Degel. is not typically susceptible to insect pests; however, some common predators may attack the lichen, such as snails and slugs. These pests are often found in damp and humid environments, similar to the conditions that Sticta arctica Degel. prefers.
To manage snails and slugs, you can begin by reducing the amount of moisture around the lichen. This can be achieved by removing any dead plant materials, which can serve as a food source for these pests. Additionally, you can apply an insecticide to the affected area to prevent further infestation.
Conclusion
Sticta arctica Degel. is a beautiful and hardy lichen that can survive in harsh polar and alpine environments. However, like all living organisms, it is susceptible to diseases and pests that can affect its health and appearance. By maintaining proper growing conditions and promptly addressing any issues, you can help ensure that your Sticta arctica Degel. stays healthy and beautiful for years to come.
