Overview of Vulpicida tilesii
Vulpicida tilesii (Ach.) J.-E. Mattsson and M. J. Lai, commonly known as Arctic moss or reindeer lichen, is a highly specialised and unique type of lichen belonging to the Cladoniaceae family. It is found in high-altitude, alpine environments across Northern Europe, North America, and Asia. The plant is one of the most visible components of the Arctic tundra ecosystem, and it plays a vital role in the lives of Arctic animals such as reindeer, caribou, and musk-oxen.
Appearance
Vulpicida tilesii has a distinct thallus that is composed of both a greenish-grey fruticose and a white central cup. The fruticose may reach up to 6cm in height, while the cup measures about 2cm in diameter. This distinctive appearance distinguishes it from other lichen, providing an invaluable source of both food and shelter for a variety of Arctic wildlife.
Uses of Vulpicida tilesii
The plant has several practical uses, particularly for peoples who live in the Arctic regions where Vulpicida tilesii grows. For centuries, it has provided an important source of food for communities, often crushed and mixed in with other foods to extend their nutritional value. It also contains high amounts of carbohydrates, which makes it an excellent source of energy for those living in harsh environments. Additionally, it is sometimes used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments like respiratory diseases, inflammation, and wounds.
Aside from practical applications, the distinctive appearance of Vulpicida tilesii makes it an appealing addition to home décor, and it is sometimes used to create model train landscapes or dioramas. However, it is best left in its natural habitat, where it continues to play an essential role in the Arctic ecosystem.
Growth Conditions for Vulpicida Tilesii
Vulpicida tilesii is a lichenized fungus that grows on rocks, trees, and soil in the boreal and subarctic regions of North America. They are commonly found in alpine and subalpine areas, especially in moist environments such as stream banks and wet meadows.
Light Requirements
Vulpicida tilesii is a photobiont-dependent lichen, which means it is dependent on light in order to photosynthesize. However, it can tolerate relatively low levels of light and is often found growing in shady or partially-shaded areas. As a result, it is commonly found growing under the canopy of trees, or on the north-facing side of rocks and boulders.
Temperature Requirements
Vulpicida tilesii is adapted to cold environments and is commonly found in subarctic and alpine regions. Its optimal growth temperature ranges from 5°C to 15°C, and it can survive temperatures as low as -40°C. During the winter months, it can become dormant and resume growth when temperatures rise above freezing in the spring.
Soil Requirements
Vulpicida tilesii is typically found growing on mineral soil or on soil-covered rock surfaces. It prefers moist soils with a high organic matter content, and is commonly found growing in wet meadows and along stream banks. It can also grow on rocky outcrops, boulders, and cliffs.
In conclusion, Vulpicida tilesii is a lichenized fungus that is well-adapted to cold, moist environments. It prefers shady or partially-shaded areas and grows on soil and rock surfaces. Its growth is dependent on light, and its optimal temperature range is between 5°C and 15°C.
Cultivation of Vulpicida tilesii (Ach.) J.-E. Mattsson & M. J. Lai
Vulpicida tilesii is a type of lichen that grows primarily in the Arctic and subarctic regions. If you live in a region with such a climate, you can easily cultivate Vulpicida tilesii in your garden or even indoors.
Watering needs of Vulpicida tilesii
Vulpicida tilesii requires minimal watering. The lichen prefers regular but infrequent watering, where the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Since Vulpicida tilesii is naturally adapted to environments with low moisture levels, it's essential not to overwater it, as it can result in root rot.
Fertilization of Vulpicida tilesii
Vulpicida tilesii doesn't require any fertilizer and can efficiently grow without it. Lichens are unique compared to typical houseplants that require nitrogen and other plant nutrients. They use photosynthesis from sunlight and have a symbiotic relationship with fungi to obtain their nutrients.
Pruning of Vulpicida tilesii
Vulpicida tilesii doesn't require any pruning since it doesn't grow as regular plants. Lichens are complex organisms composed of algae and fungi that function as a single entity. Trimming the lichen would result in harming it. If you need to remove some sections that have died or turned yellow, gently scrape it off with a fingernail or toothbrush.
Propagation of Vulpicida tilesii
Vulpicida tilesii is a lichen species that can be propagated by three methods: fragmentation, vegetative propagation, and spore propagation.
Fragmentation
Fragmentation is the easiest and most common method for propagating Vulpicida tilesii. This involves breaking or cutting apart a mature lichen thallus into smaller pieces and attaching them to a suitable substrate to allow regrowth. The best substrate for Vulpicida tilesii is a slightly moist, stable and nutrient-poor rock or tree bark. Fragmentation can be done any time of the year, but spring and summer are the best seasons for this method.
Vegetative propagation
Vegetative propagation can be done by taking a small section of the lichen thallus and placing it onto a new substrate. The thallus should be separated carefully from the substrate to ensure that it remains intact. Then, it can be attached using a glue-like substance, which is typically a mix of sugar and water. This method is quite difficult but once established, it forms a separate lichen thallus of the same genetic strain.
Spore propagation
Spore propagation is a more complicated method, but it provides genetic variability in new lichen thalli. The reproductive structures of Vulpicida tilesii, called apothecia, produce spores that, when mature, can be dispersed in the wind. The spores can then land on a suitable substrate and grow into a new thallus. However, the success of this method is limited due to the environmental requirements for spore germination, as well as the complex and lengthy process involved in producing new thalli.
Disease Management
Vulpicida tilesii is generally a hardy plant, resistant to many types of diseases. However, it can develop some common foliar diseases such as lichens, leaf spots, and rusts.
Lichens:
Lichens grow on the surface of the plant and do not cause much damage. The easiest way to manage them is by physically removing them by hand or scrapping them off gently with a soft brush. Ensure that the plant is not damaged during the process to prevent creating entry points for pathogens to enter.
Leaf spots:
Leaf spot pathogens infect the leaves with fungal or bacterial infections. These diseases are usually caused by wet conditions and inadequate drainage. To reduce the likelihood of these diseases, avoid overhead watering and ensure that the plant has proper drainage. If you notice any spots on the leaves, remove them immediately, and destroy them to reduce the spread of the disease. You can also apply fungicides such as copper-based sprays to control these diseases.
Rust:
Rust pathogens cause orange or brown spots on the leaves. These diseases thrive in wet conditions and can cause severe damage if left untreated. To manage rust, observe proper watering techniques, and ensure that the plant has proper ventilation to reduce humidity levels. Remove any infected leaves and discard them to avoid spreading the pathogens. Apply fungicides such as neem oil to control the disease.
Pest Management
Vulpicida tilesii is also relatively pest-resistant. However, some pests can cause damage, especially when the plant is stressed.
Spider mites:
Spider mites are tiny pests that appear on the leaves and suck the sap, which can lead to leaf discoloration and defoliation. You can manage spider mites by rinsing the leaves with water, creating a less favorable environment for them. You can also apply insecticidal soap sprays or neem oil to control the pests.
Scale insects:
Scale insects attach to the leaves and stems and suck sap, causing the plant to weaken and eventually die. To control scale insects, use cotton swabs dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them from the plant. You can also apply neem oil sprays to control them.
Caterpillars:
Caterpillars can cause severe damage to the plant by chewing the leaves and resulting in defoliation. Handpick the caterpillars and dispose of them. You can also spray Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) to control caterpillars' infestation.
