Origin and Common Names
Verrucaria submersella Servit is a species of seaweed in the family Verrucariaceae. It is commonly known as the "rock-boring crust" or "submerged Verrucaria" due to its preferred habitat of rocky substrates in subtidal or shallow intertidal zones. This species is found in coastal regions of Europe, including the Baltic, North, and Irish Seas.Uses
Verrucaria submersella Servit plays an important ecological role as a primary producer in underwater environments. It is also used in scientific research as a bioindicator of water quality due to its sensitivity to pollution. Additionally, the polysaccharides found in Verrucaria submersella Servit have shown promising potential for use in various medical and industrial applications.General Appearance
Verrucaria submersella Servit is a crustose seaweed with a flattened, irregularly shaped thallus that adheres tightly to the rocky substrate on which it grows. It has a brown or dark green coloration and is often covered in a layer of fine sediment or sand. The thallus may form patches up to several centimeters in diameter and generally has a rough, grainy texture due to the presence of bumps and/or warts. This species also contains small, black, flask-shaped reproductive structures known as perithecia that are visible to the naked eye.Light Requirements
Verrucaria submersella is a plant species that prefers to grow in moderate to bright light conditions. These algae algae are commonly found in rocky intertidal zones exposed to direct sunlight and they grow well under artificial light in aquaria experiments.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species thrives in a temperature range of 5-20°C, with some variations due to seasonal change. Verrucaria submersella can tolerate a range of temperatures. In fact, it survives extreme temperature changes and therefore, can be grown even in colder regions.
Soil Requirements
As a marine alga, Verrucaria submersella does not grow in soil but rather adheres to rocks, stones and other hard surfaces. However, these algae typically prefer environments with nutrient-rich substrata, such as sandy or muddy sediment. In tank culture, these plants can be attached to rocks, shells, and other hard surfaces with adhesives or clips to ensure proper attachment and growth
Cultivation methods
Verrucaria submersella Servit is a species of algae that grows on rock surfaces in the intertidal zone, particularly those that are periodically or constantly submerged. To cultivate this plant, a rocky substrate with similar conditions must be provided. Setting up an aquarium tank with rocky surfaces or utilizing natural rock pools can create an ideal environment for Verrucaria submersella to thrive. It is essential to consider the environmental factors such as the tidal range, water salinity, and temperature to ensure optimal growth.
Watering needs
As an algal species, Verrucaria submersella Servit does not require watering. However, it needs a constant supply of water to remain submerged in its natural habitat. Therefore, it is essential to maintain a consistent water level when cultivating this plant. Also, ensure that the water is clean, nutrient-rich, and well-circulated to prevent the accumulation of harmful bacteria and parasites that could affect its growth and health.
Fertilization
Verrucaria submersella Servit is an autotrophic plant that thrives mainly on the nutrients derived from the surrounding water. However, supplementing water with trace elements and essential minerals such as iron, nitrogen, and potassium can boost its growth and promote its health. Care should be taken not to over-fertilize as this could cause algal blooms that could harm the plant and other aquatic organisms.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Verrucaria submersella Servit as it does not grow tall or have the traditional leaves and stems that require trimming. Instead, it forms crust-like patches on the rocky surface, which it adheres to tightly. The only maintenance required is the removal of any debris or dead algae that could accumulate on the surface and shade the plant, disrupting its access to light.
Propagation of Verrucaria submersella Servit
Propagation of the Verrucaria submersella Servit can be done through various methods such as division, spores, and vegetative propagation.
Division
Division is one of the most common propagation methods for Verrucaria submersella Servit. This involves dividing the plant into smaller sections, which are then replanted in suitable conditions. When dividing, it is recommended to use a sharp tool to avoid damaging the plant. After division, ensure that the new plants have enough water and nutrients for growth.
Spores
Propagation of Verrucaria submersella Servit can also be done through spores. Spores are tiny, lightweight structures that are produced by the plant’s reproductive system. When mature, the spores are released into the air and carried by the wind to suitable soil or water bodies. It is important to note that spores require specific conditions such as moisture, light, and temperature for successful germination. Therefore, it is best to research the plant’s specific spore germination needs before attempting this propagation method.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation is another suitable method for propagating Verrucaria submersella Servit. This involves taking cuttings or cloning the plant using tissue culture techniques. To take cuttings, select healthy stem sections and dip them in rooting hormone before planting them in a suitable potting medium. Tissue culture involves growing the plant tissues in a sterile environment, providing ideal conditions for growth and development. This is a more challenging method but can produce a higher quantity of plants in a shorter time.
Disease Management
Just like any living organism, Verrucaria submersella is prone to various diseases that may affect its growth and productivity. Here are some of the common diseases that may affect Verrucaria submersella:
- Algae infection: Algae infection is common to most aquatic plants. It affects the growth of plants by blocking the necessary sunlight needed by Verrucaria submersella to carry out photosynthesis. To prevent this disease, it is essential to clean the aquarium regularly.
- Fungal infection: Fungal infections are also common to most plants, and it can be caused by poor water quality, high humidity, and lack of air circulation. One of the best ways to manage fungal infection is to maintain proper water quality and provide adequate spacing between the plants to promote air circulation.
- Diatom bloom: Diatom bloom is a common disease that occurs in newly established aquariums. Diatoms are microscopic brown algae that can grow in the aquarium's glass and substrate. It can be managed by increasing the number of light hours and reducing the silicates and phosphates level in the water.
Pest Management
Pests are the most common problems that affect aquatic plants, and Verrucaria submersella is not an exception. Here are some of the common pests that may affect Verrucaria submersella:
- Snails: Snails are one of the most common pests that can affect the growth of Verrucaria submersella. They can be managed by removing them from the aquarium manually or by using snail traps.
- Planaria: Planaria is a type of flatworm that can develop on the aquarium's glass and substrate. They can be eliminated by reducing the food source and maintaining proper water quality.
- Shrimps: Shrimps are not pests, but they may affect the growth of Verrucaria submersella if they are too many in the aquarium. It is essential to maintain the right population of shrimp in the aquarium to avoid overcrowding.
