Overview
Tremella cetrariicola Diederich & Coppins, also known as Cetraria-like jelly fungus, is a rare and unusual species of fungi that belongs to the family Tremellaceae. It was first discovered and named in Scotland in 2004, but has since been found in other parts of the world.
Appearance
Tremella cetrariicola has a gelatinous texture and can be yellow, ochre or brown in color. It grows in small, lobed or convoluted masses that are usually less than 1cm wide. It has no distinctive odor or taste.
Origin and Distribution
Tremella cetrariicola is believed to be a rare species that is found in scattered locations throughout the world. It is commonly found growing on the branches of Cetraria aculeata, a species of lichen, in northern Scotland, but has also been found in parts of North America and Europe.
Uses
There is very little information on the specific uses of Tremella cetrariicola, although it is known to be edible. In traditional Chinese medicine, Tremella fungi have been used for centuries as a rejuvenating tonic for the skin.
It is worth noting that consuming wild mushrooms can be dangerous, and it is important to only consume fungi that have been properly identified as edible by an expert before consumption.
Light Requirements
Tremella cetrariicola grows best in low light conditions, such as those found in the understory of forests. Exposure to direct sunlight can damage the delicate fruticose lichen, causing it to dry out and die. It is typically found growing on the trunks and branches of trees, which provide filtered and dappled light.
Temperature Requirements
The temperature requirements of Tremella cetrariicola are closely related to its light requirements. It prefers cool and humid environments with temperatures ranging from 5-20 degrees Celsius. In areas where temperatures regularly exceed 20 degrees Celsius, the lichen may struggle to survive and can become desiccated. In extreme cold, the growth of the lichen may be inhibited entirely.
Soil and Substrate Requirements
Tremella cetrariicola is a lichen, which is a symbiotic organism composed of a fungus and a photosynthetic partner, typically an alga or a cyanobacterium. In order to grow, it requires a suitable substrate to anchor itself to and a source of nutrients. It is typically found growing on the bark of trees, particularly those with a high moisture content such as conifers. It can also be found growing on rock surfaces, where it colonizes mineral-rich substrates such as limestone, silicate rocks, or soil. It is sensitive to pollution, which can affect its ability to absorb nutrients and water from the environment.
Cultivation Methods for Tremella cetrariicola
Tremella cetrariicola is a lichen that grows on the bark of trees in the mountainous regions of Europe and North America. Cultivating this plant is not possible as it grows naturally in the habitat it is adapted to.
Watering Needs for Tremella cetrariicola
Tremella cetrariicola obtains its moisture and nutrients directly from the air and the tree bark it grows on. Therefore, it does not require any additional watering once it has been established.
Fertilization for Tremella cetrariicola
Tremella cetrariicola does not need external fertilization as it obtains all its nutrients from the environment it is adapted to. It is not recommended to use any type of fertilizer for this plant.
Pruning for Tremella cetrariicola
Tremella cetrariicola does not require pruning as it does not have any leaves or stems. It is a lichen that grows naturally in a form that is adapted to its environment. Therefore, it is advisable not to manipulate the plant in any way to avoid damaging it.
Propagation of Tremella cetrariicola Diederich & Coppins
Tremella cetrariicola Diederich & Coppins, also known as the Lichen Jelly Fungus, is a saprophytic fungus species that grows on the surface of terricolous lichens in mountainous regions.
Propagation of Tremella cetrariicola can be done through two methods:
1. Spore Propagation
Spore propagation is the easiest and most common method of propagating Tremella cetrariicola. The spores of the fungus are released into the air, settling on the surface of suitable substrates such as the lichens it grows on. The spores can then germinate and develop into new mycelium, eventually forming new fruiting bodies.
To propagate Tremella cetrariicola through spores, collect mature fruiting bodies and carefully remove the spores using a sterile instrument. Sprinkle the spores on sterilized agar or suitable substrate that supports the growth of the lichen the fungus grows on. Keep the culture under suitable growing conditions until the spores germinate.
2. Mycelial Propagation
Mycelial propagation is another method of propagating Tremella cetrariicola. It involves obtaining a small piece of mycelium from an existing culture and transferring it to a new substrate.
To propagate Tremella cetrariicola through mycelial propagation, remove a piece of mycelium from an existing culture using sterile instruments. Place the mycelium on a sterilized agar or the substrate the fungus is known to grow on and provide suitable growing conditions.
It is important to maintain proper growing conditions, including temperature, humidity, and sunlight or other light sources, when propagating Tremella cetrariicola to ensure successful growth and development.
Disease and Pest Management for Tremella cetrariicola
Tremella cetrariicola is fairly resistant to most pests and diseases. However, proper management practices can help ensure healthy growth of the plant and minimize the risk of pest and disease infestation.
Common Pests
The most common pest that may infest Tremella cetrariicola is spider mites. These tiny creatures can cause significant damage to the plant by sucking out its sap, leading to yellowing and stunted growth. To manage spider mites, regularly inspect the plant for any signs of infestation. If a few mites are present, you can wash them off the plant with a strong stream of water. If the infestation is severe, consider using insecticidal soap or spraying neem oil on the plant.
Another pest that may attack Tremella cetrariicola is scale insects. These pests attach themselves to the plant and suck out its sap, leading to yellowing, wilting, and distorted growth. To manage scale insects, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to wipe off the insects from the plant. You can also spray neem oil on the plant to control the infestation.
Common Diseases
There are not many diseases that affect Tremella cetrariicola, but the plant may be susceptible to leaf spot fungi. These fungi can cause brown or black spots on the leaves, leading to defoliation and reduced growth. To manage leaf spot fungi, ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. You can also remove any infected leaves and dispose of them properly to prevent the spread of the disease.
Another disease that may affect Tremella cetrariicola is root rot. This disease is caused by fungi that thrive in moist, poorly-drained soil. To manage root rot, ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil and water it only when the soil is dry to the touch. If the plant shows any signs of wilting or yellowing, consider removing it from the soil, cutting away any damaged roots, and replanting it in fresh, well-draining soil.
By following these management practices, you can help ensure healthy growth of Tremella cetrariicola and minimize the risk of pest and disease infestation.
