Overview
Toninia squarrosa (Ach.) Th. Fr. is a foliose lichen found in the Northern Hemisphere. It has diverse uses and a unique appearance.
Origin and Distribution
Toninia squarrosa is commonly found in temperate and cold climates of the Northern Hemisphere, especially in the Arctic regions. It mostly grows on cliffs, rocks and boulders that are exposed to sun, light, and wind. It can also be found on tree bark and wood. The lichen is sensitive to air pollution and is considered an indicator of clean air.
Common Names
Toninia squarrosa is commonly known as the Tile Lichen, Phoenix-Feather Lichen, or Squarrose Shield Lichen.
Appearance
The lichen's thallus has a smooth to slightly rough texture and is square-shaped, with adjacent plates that are up to 5 cm in diameter. The color of the thallus may vary from light gray to olive, while the underside appears black with small black rhizines. The apothecia is brown and is up to 3 mm in diameter. The lichen's size varies depending on the growing location and environmental conditions.
Uses
During ancient times, Toninia squarrosa was used as a source of natural pigments, especially for blue and green colors. The lichen was also known for its medicinal properties as it was used to treat wounds, stomach ailments, and respiratory diseases. Toninia squarrosa is now used in various scientific studies as a bioindicator of air quality, owing to its sensitivity to pollutants and unique metabolism. The lichen is also used in ecological studies since it is an important food source for many animals, including caribou and reindeer during severe seasons of the year.
Light Requirements
Toninia squarrosa is a lichen that requires an adequate amount of light to grow. It is commonly found in areas with partial to full sunlight exposure.
Temperature Requirements
Toninia squarrosa thrives in cool to cold temperatures. It can withstand temperature ranges between -30°C to 20°C. It can also tolerate occasional exposure to frost.
Soil and Substrate Requirements
Toninia squarrosa grows on a variety of soil and substrate types, including rocks, barks, and sandy soils. It prefers areas with low-nutrient levels, making it commonly found in barren lands, rocky outcrops, and tundra habitats.
Cultivation of Toninia Squarrosa
Toninia squarrosa is a lichen that grows on rocks, tree trunks, or soil. In nature, it can tolerate different temperatures and humidity levels, adapting to harsh conditions. However, cultivating Toninia squarrosa indoors can be challenging.
Watering Needs
One advantage of cultivating lichens is that they are low-maintenance. Toninia squarrosa does not have roots, and it absorbs water and nutrients from the air, rainfall, or dew. Thus, you do not need to water it frequently.
However, you may mist it with water once a month to keep it hydrated. Use preferably distilled water to avoid chlorine and minerals. Alternatively, you can submerge it in water for a few hours every few months.
Fertilization
Like other lichens, Toninia squarrosa does not need fertilization. It obtains its nutrients from the air or the surface it grows on. It also has a mutually beneficial relationship with algae, which produces food for the lichen.
Pruning
Pruning lichens is not necessary nor recommended. Toninia squarrosa grows slowly, and removing parts of it may damage it irreversibly. Instead, you can remove debris or dust that accumulates on its surface with a soft brush or compressed air.
Propagation of Toninia squarrosa (Ach.) Th. Fr.
Toninia squarrosa is a lichenized fungus that reproduces both sexually and asexually. It can be propagated through various methods such as:
Fragmentation
Fragmentation is the process of breaking off a mature portion of the plant and replanting it in a new area. This method allows the plant to regrow and establish itself quickly in a new location. For Toninia squarrosa, fragmentation can be achieved by carefully breaking off a portion of the thallus and attaching it to a new substrate with a specialized adhesive.
Soredia
Soredia are small reproductive structures produced by Toninia squarrosa that contain both fungal and algal cells. They are easily dispersed by wind or water and can colonize new areas. To propagate Toninia squarrosa through soredia, one can collect the soredia from mature thalli and disperse them in a new area with favorable growing conditions. They will then germinate and develop into new thalli.
Isidia
Isidia are small protrusions that form on the surface of Toninia squarrosa thalli. They consist of both fungal and algal cells and can be easily broken off to propagate the plant. To propagate Toninia squarrosa through isidia, simply collect the isidia from mature thalli and attach them to a new substrate with a specialized adhesive.
Sexual Reproduction
Toninia squarrosa can also reproduce sexually, although this process is less commonly used for propagation. Sexual reproduction involves the fusion of male and female gametes, which can result in the production of new spores. These spores can then colonize new areas and develop into mature thalli over time.
Disease Management
Toninia squarrosa (Ach.) Th. Fr. is generally a healthy plant that does not suffer from many diseases. However, it can be affected by some fungal and bacterial diseases. These include:
- Leaf spot: Small spots surrounded by a yellow halo may appear on the leaves. To manage this disease, remove the infected foliage and apply a fungicide.
- Canker: This disease causes sunken areas on the bark, which may ooze. Trim any affected branches and burn them to control the spread of the disease.
- Root rot: This disease manifests as yellowing leaves that wilt and fall prematurely. To manage this disease, ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering.
Pest Management
Toninia squarrosa (Ach.) Th. Fr. is not a common target of pests, but it can be affected by some insects and mites. These include:
- Mites: Mites can cause stippling on the leaves and reduce the plant's vigor. To manage this pest, apply an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Scale insects: Scale insects can attach themselves to the plant's leaves and stem, causing it to discolor and die back. To manage this pest, apply a horticultural oil spray.
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars can eat the plant's foliage, affecting its growth and appearance. To manage this pest, apply a biological control agent such as Bacillus thuringiensis.
