Origin
Thelidium mesotropum, also known as Punctelia mesotropa, is a lichenized species that belongs to the Parmeliaceae family. It is commonly found in North America and Europe, including countries such as Germany, United Kingdom, and the United States.
Common Names
Thelidium mesotropum is commonly known as mesotrope punctue in French and müller's Schildflechte in German.
Uses
Thelidium mesotropum is not widely used for medicinal or culinary purposes due to its bitter taste. However, it is commonly used as an indicator of air pollution due to its sensitivity to sulfur dioxide.
General Appearance
Thelidium mesotropum has a loosely attached, foliose thallus that is gray-green in color. The thallus has a lobed margin that appears to be crinkled, and a shiny and smooth upper surface. The underside of the thallus is black with pale rhizines. The apothecia, or reproductive structures, are brown or black, and up to 4 mm in diameter. The species is commonly found growing on the bark of deciduous trees or on rocks.
Growth Conditions of Thelidium mesotropum
Thelidium mesotropum, commonly known as shield lichen, is a type of foliose lichen that grows on bark, rocks, and soil in temperate and boreal forests. The typical growth conditions for this lichen include:
Light Requirements
Thelidium mesotropum prefers moderate to high light levels and is often found growing in exposed areas where it receives ample sunlight. However, it can also tolerate low light conditions and is occasionally found growing in shaded areas.
Temperature Range
This lichen requires cool to cold temperatures for optimal growth. It can tolerate freezing temperatures but cannot survive in hot environments. The optimal temperature range for the growth of Thelidium mesotropum is between 5°C and 20°C.
Soil Requirements
Thelidium mesotropum grows on a variety of substrates including rocks, soil and bark. It is often found growing on the bark of deciduous and coniferous trees. The soil type does not seem to be critical for this lichen, but it requires a substrate that can hold moisture and provide a stable surface for attachment.
Cultivation methods for Thelidium mesotropum
Thelidium mesotropum is an epiphytic lichen that grows on living or dead branches of various trees. It prefers to grow in humid to semi-arid conditions and can thrive in different light conditions ranging from full sun to partial shade. When cultivating Thelidium mesotropum, it is essential to choose the right type of substrate that mimics the natural habitat of the plant.
One way to cultivate Thelidium mesotropum is to mount it on a piece of bark. You can attach it using a piece of nylon thread or fishing line and hang it in a shaded area. Alternatively, you can use a terrarium or a vivarium with appropriate ventilation and humidity levels. You must ensure that the plant is not exposed to direct sunlight as it can quickly dry it out.
Watering needs for Thelidium mesotropum
Thelidium mesotropum requires regular misting or spraying with water to maintain the humidity levels. You should ensure that the substrate or bark is damp but not waterlogged to prevent rotting and damage to the plant. Avoid watering the plant too frequently as it can reduce the lifespan of the lichen. Before watering, check the substrate with your hand to ensure that it has dried out slightly.
Fertilization for Thelidium mesotropum
As an epiphytic lichen, Thelidium mesotropum doesn't require any fertilizers or nutrients. It obtains all its nutrients from the air and rainwater. Using any fertilizer can cause harm to the plant and negatively impact its growth. When cultivating Thelidium mesotropum, it is critical to avoid using any chemicals or pesticides that may affect the plant's health.
Pruning for Thelidium mesotropum
Pruning is not essential when cultivating Thelidium mesotropum as it is a slow-growing plant that doesn't require any significant maintenance. However, you may need to remove any dead or damaged parts of the plant to prevent any fungal or bacterial infections. You can use a pair of sterilized scissors to trim off any portions of the lichen that have become discolored or damaged. It is essential to remove the affected parts as soon as you notice them to prevent the spread of any diseases.
Propagation of Thelidium Mesotropum
Thelidium mesotropum is commonly known as a crustose lichen found in Great Britain, continental Europe, North Africa, and North America. It grows on bark, rocks, and occasionally on soil surfaces, and it can be propagated through several methods.
Vegetative Propagation
Thelidium mesotropum can propagate vegetatively by fragmentation. In this method, small fragments of the lichen thalli can be detached and attached to a suitable substrate to create new colonies. This is an effective and quick method of propagation, and it can be used to propagate lichens in small quantities.
Asexual Propagation
Asexual propagation of Thelidium mesotropum can be carried out by soredia or isidia. Soredia and isidia are small asexual structures that break off from the thallus and attach to a substrate to start a new colony. The structures contain both algal and fungal cells and are dispersed by various means such as wind or water. This method is an effective way to propagate the lichen in large quantities.
Sexual Propagation
Thelidium mesotropum can reproduce sexually by producing spores. In order to propagate by this method, the lichen must be allowed to produce fruiting bodies called apothecia, which will eventually release the spores. The spores are dispersed by various means such as wind or water and can germinate to start new colonies. This method is slower and less reliable than vegetative or asexual propagation, but it is necessary for maintaining genetic diversity.
Disease Management
Thelidium mesotropum is susceptible to various diseases, including leaf spot, anthracnose, and powdery mildew. These diseases can be managed through various methods, including:
- Cultural control: Practicing good sanitation by removing and destroying infected leaves and debris can prevent the spread of diseases.
- Chemical control: Fungicides can be used to control these diseases, but it is essential to follow the instructions closely to prevent damage to the plant and the environment.
- Biological control: Biological agents such as Bacillus subtilis and Trichoderma spp. are effective in managing fungal diseases of Thelidium mesotropum.
Pest Management
Thelidium mesotropum is also susceptible to pest infestations such as scale insects, spider mites, and thrips. These pests can be managed through various methods, including:
- Cultural control: Practicing good sanitation by removing and destroying infested leaves and debris can reduce pest populations.
- Mechanical control: Handpicking and removing pests can be an effective method for small infestations.
- Biological control: Biological agents such as ladybugs and lacewings can control pest populations of Thelidium mesotropum effectively.
- Chemical control: Insecticides can also be used to control pests but must be used carefully to avoid harming beneficial insects and pollinators.
