Origin
Vulpicida pinastri (Scop.) J.-E. Mattsson & M. J. Lai, commonly known as the pine bark lichen, is a species of lichen found commonly in temperate regions of North America, Europe, and Asia.
Common Names
The pine bark lichen is commonly referred to by several names, including fox-fire lichen and the orange lichen. These names are derived from the lichen's characteristic orange hue and its association with foxes, which have been known to rub against trees containing the lichen.
Uses
Despite its common name, the pine bark lichen does not actually grow on pine trees, but is typically found on the bark of hardwood trees, particularly oak and maple. Historically, the lichen has been used for a variety of purposes, including as a dye for wool, a medicinal treatment for ailments such as arthritis and fevers, and as a food source for reindeer in northern Scandinavia. Today, the lichen is primarily used for scientific research and as an indicator of air quality, as it is sensitive to pollutants such as sulfur dioxide.
General Appearance
The pine bark lichen is easily recognizable by its bright orange color, which is caused by the presence of a reddish-orange pigment called vulpinic acid. The lichen forms small, rounded or irregularly shaped patches on the bark of trees, ranging in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters. The surface of the lichen is typically shaggy or fibrillose, with small projections or hairs covering the surface. The underside of the lichen is smooth and tan or light brown in color.
Light Requirements
Vulpicida pinastri thrives best in full sun, partial sun or partial shade conditions. However, direct and prolonged exposure to intense sunlight can lead to sunburn and slow growth. As a lichen species, Vulpicida pinastri requires photosynthesis to synthesize organic materials from inorganic compounds in the presence of sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Vulpicida pinastri is known to grow in cold or cool environments with temperatures ranging from 10 °C to 21 °C. The temperature range is generally narrower when the lichen grows on trees and wider when it grows on rock surfaces, where temperatures can reach 30 °C. Humidity plays a critical role in lichen survival, with higher relative humidity being beneficial to growth and reproduction.
Soil Requirements
Vulpicida pinastri grows only on the bark of live trees. Growth on dead or decaying bark is rare. The lichen is commonly found on pine trees, particularly eastern white pine and red pine, but it can also grow on other tree species such as maple, oak, spruce and fir. Vulpicida pinastri is generally not found in urban areas, possibly due to the generally low air quality and high pollution levels.
Cultivation Methods
Vulpicida pinastri is a type of lichen that can be propagated through vegetative means. The best way to cultivate this plant is by attaching its fragments onto suitable substrates. Vulpicida pinastri grows on the bark of coniferous trees, such as pine, spruce, and fir species. To propagate the lichen, gently detach small pieces of it, and place them onto the bark of a healthy host tree. If the host tree is free of disease, the propagated Vulpicida pinastri will thrive and grow.
Watering Needs
Vulpicida pinastri does not have traditional watering needs since it gets its nutrients from surrounding air and soil. However, it is sensitive to drought, and in dry periods, they may shrink and close their pores to avoid evaporation. During drought periods, their growth may dramatically decrease. So, make sure to grow them in areas where they receive adequate moisture year-round, like rainy regions.
Fertilization
Lichens such as Vulpicida pinastri don't require fertilization since they generate their food naturally. The lichens can photosynthesize their food and obtain mineral nutrients from dust, rain, snow, and air. Consequently, the surrounding environment's health influences their growth. Therefore, it's essential to ensure that the surrounding atmosphere is free of chemical pollutants that can damage the Vulpicida pinastri.
Pruning
Vulpicida pinastri does not require pruning as it grows slowly and doesn't spread uncontrollably. However, it's essential to remove any dead or decaying host tree bark around where the lichen grows. This pruning is vital since dead bark can lead to the harboring of pests, fungi, or parasites, which can cause harm or death to the Vulpicida pinastri. Nevertheless, when pruning the host tree, be careful not to hurt the growing lichens by keeping a safe distance from them.
Propagation of Vulpicida pinastri
Vulpicida pinastri, also known as the pine-moss lichen, is a foliose lichen commonly found growing on the bark of pine trees in temperate regions across the world. Propagation of this lichen can be achieved through the following methods:
Asexual Propagation
The most common method of asexual propagation for Vulpicida pinastri is by vegetative reproduction, which involves fragmentation of the thallus. This method is ideal for species that exhibit slow growth and requires minimal resources. Vegetative reproduction can be accomplished by physically separating segments of the thallus and transferring them to a suitable substrate.
Another method of asexual propagation involves the production of soredia, which are small, dust-like particles that are easily dispersed by wind or water. These soredia contain both fungal and algal cells and can establish new lichen colonies when they come in contact with a suitable substrate.
Sexual Propagation
Vulpicida pinastri also reproduces sexually by producing apothecia, which are small cup-shaped structures that contain the lichen's spores. These spores are dispersed by wind or water and can germinate on a suitable substrate to form a new lichen colony.
However, sexual reproduction is a rare occurrence in Vulpicida pinastri, and asexual propagation is the predominant method of propagation for this species.
Disease and Pest Management for Vulpicida Pinastri (Scop.) J.-E. Mattsson & M. J. Lai
Vulpicida pinastri, commonly known as the lichen species, primarily grows on coniferous trees, rocks, and soil. It is not usually affected by diseases or pests. However, in some instances, diseases and pests could impede the growth and survival of this species. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them to ensure its vitality.
Common Diseases
The most prevalent diseases that could affect Vulpicida pinastri are fungal infections and lichen diseases, including:
- Vulpinicola pustulata: This fungal pathogen is known to parasitize Vulpicida pinastri, resulting in thallus distortion, softening, and disintegration. To manage this disease, remove nearby infected plants, and avoid over-watering the affected plants.
- Lichenostigma elongatum: This lichen disease causes lesions on the thallus and could result in mortality. To manage the disease, spray the infected plant with copper-containing fungicides or remove and dispose of the infected areas.
- Massalongia carnosa: This fungal pathogen forms black spots on the thallus, leading to the plant's death. To manage the disease, prune the affected areas and apply fungicides containing copper or mancozeb.
Common Pests
Vulpicida pinastri is usually not affected by pests. Nonetheless, some mites, insects, and snails could cause damage to the plant, leading to its decline. Here are some common pests that might affect the plant:
- Spider mites: These pests suck sap from the plant, resulting in yellowing and stunted growth. To manage the pests, prune affected parts and spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Scale insects: Scale insects attach themselves to the plant, sucking sap and causing the thallus to yellow and wilt. To manage the pests, prune affected parts and spray the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
- Slugs and snails: These pests often feed on the plant's thallus, resulting in holes and damage to the plant. To manage the pests, handpick them from the plant or use pet-friendly snail bait.
It is essential to maintain healthy plant growth as it reduces the plant's susceptibility to diseases and pests. Regularly prune and fertilize the plant, ensure proper light, and avoid over-watering to maintain its health.
