Introduction
Calicium adspersum Pers. is a lichenized fungus that is commonly found on rocks, bark, and soil in temperate and subarctic regions of the Northern Hemisphere. It belongs to the family Teloschistaceae and is also known by the common names scattered parchment and brittle rim-lichen.
General Appearance
The thallus of Calicium adspersum Pers. is crustose, meaning that it forms a thin, smooth layer on the substrate it grows on. The thallus is yellowish-orange to reddish-brown in color, with a distinct brittle rim that is tan or white. It grows in patches that can range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters and is generally very thin, only 0.1-0.2 mm thick.
Uses
Calicium adspersum Pers. has no known practical uses. However, as with many lichens, it is an indicator species that can be used to monitor air pollution levels in urban and industrial areas. In addition, it is used in scientific research to study the ecology and physiology of lichens.
Conclusion
Calicium adspersum Pers. may not be a very well-known plant, but it plays an important role in scientific research and environmental monitoring. Its unique appearance and habitat make it a fascinating subject for naturalists and lichen enthusiasts alike.
Light Requirements:
Calicium adspersum Pers. requires low to moderate levels of light. It can thrive in partial to full shade conditions. Direct sunlight for extended periods can damage the plant.
Temperature Requirements:
Calicium adspersum Pers. is a cool-weather plant that prefers temperatures between 55°F to 70°F (13°C to 21°C). It can survive in temperatures as low as 40°F (4°C) and as high as 80°F (27°C). However, extreme heat can cause the plant to dry out and die.
Soil Requirements:
Calicium adspersum Pers. prefers well-draining soils that are slightly acidic with a pH range between 5.5 to 6.5. The plant grows best in nutrient-rich, moist soil that retains enough water without becoming waterlogged. The ideal soil type for Calicium adspersum Pers. is loamy or sandy.
Cultivation of Calicium adspersum Pers.
Calicium adspersum Pers. is a small, creeping plant that grows naturally in forests, rock crevices, and on rotten wood. As a houseplant, it can be grown in a pot or in a terrarium.
The ideal location for Calicium adspersum Pers. is a shaded area with moderate to high humidity levels. It should be kept away from direct sunlight as the leaves may scorch.
The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite is ideal.
Watering Needs
Calicium adspersum Pers. prefers moist soil, but it should not be allowed to sit in water. Water the plant thoroughly and allow the soil to drain completely before watering it again. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is essential to let the soil dry out slightly between waterings.
As the plant prefers high humidity levels, misting the leaves daily with room temperature water can help keep the foliage healthy and prevent spider mites from infesting the leaves.
Fertilization
Calicium adspersum Pers. does not require constant fertilization as it is a slow-growing plant. However, fertilizing the plant during the growing season, from spring through fall, can encourage healthy growth. Use a diluted, balanced fertilizer once a month, following the manufacturer's instructions.
Additionally, the soil can be amended with organic matter like compost or worm castings to provide essential nutrients to the plant.
Pruning
Calicium adspersum Pers. typically does not require pruning as it is a low-growing plant that forms a dense mat of foliage. However, to keep the plant looking neat, you can trim back any yellow or dead leaves as well as any stems that have become too long or leggy.
Ensure that you use clean, sterilized pruning tools to prevent the spread of diseases and infections.
Propagation of Calicium adspersum Pers.
Calicium adspersum Pers. is a species of lichen that propagates through both sexual and asexual methods.
Asexual Propagation
The main asexual method of propagation for Calicium adspersum Pers. is through the formation of soredia. Soredia are small clusters of algal and fungal cells that are enclosed in a protective layer of fungal tissue. They are produced on the surface of the thallus and can be dispersed by wind or water to form new lichen colonies. The soredia of Calicium adspersum Pers. are typically greenish-yellow and about 0.1-0.2 mm in size.
Another form of asexual propagation for Calicium adspersum Pers. involves the fragmentation of the thallus. This can occur as a result of physical disturbance or environmental stress. When the thallus is fragmented, each fragment has the potential to develop into a new lichen colony.
Sexual Propagation
Calicium adspersum Pers. also reproduces sexually through the formation of apothecia. Apothecia are rounded or cup-shaped structures that are formed on the surface of the thallus. They contain the reproductive structures of the lichen, including asci (spore-producing structures) and spores. The spores are dispersed by wind or water and can develop into new lichen colonies if they come into contact with suitable substrate.
Sexual reproduction in Calicium adspersum Pers. is relatively rare compared to asexual reproduction, but it allows for greater genetic diversity within populations.
Disease Management
Calicium adspersum Pers., commonly known as the dust lichen, is susceptible to several plant diseases. The most common diseases that affect the plant include lichen diseases and fungal infections. Lichen diseases often occur when the plant's growth is slowed down due to stress or other environmental factors. In contrast, fungal infections are frequently caused by wet and humid weather conditions.
To manage lichen diseases, it is essential to maintain proper growing conditions for the plant. This includes providing adequate sunlight, proper watering, and fertilization. Pruning can also help to increase airflow and prevent the growth of lichen on the plant's surface. Similarly, the best way to control fungal infections is by limiting the plant's exposure to excess moisture. Proper drainage of water and reducing the frequency of watering can help prevent fungal infections.
Pest Management
There are several pests that may affect the growth and development of Calicium adspersum Pers. Some of the common pests known to attack this plant include mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. Mealybugs are small, white insects that suck sap from the leaves, causing yellowing and dropping. Spider mites are tiny pests that live on the undersides of leaves and spin webs around the plant. Scale insects, on the other hand, are more challenging to control and can cause significant damage to the plant's growth and development.
Control measures for these pests can vary depending on the severity of the infestation. In mild cases, using a strong blast of water can help to dislodge spider mites and mealybugs from the plant. However, an insecticide may be necessary for more severe infestations. An oil-based one is an effective option for controlling scale insects. It is essential to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer and always use personal protective equipment when applying insecticides.
