Tiny Treasures: Lichens on Colombian Oak
Discovering a unique ecosystem on the shores of Colombia's largest lake.
Lichen - Quercus (2021-05-17) by Felipe VelascoOriginal Source: Xieti Nature Reserve (Lake Tota)
The Colombian Oak's Endangered Beauty
Colombian oak (Quercus humboldtii) is a vulnerable (VU) and very rare species around Lake Tota. Native and a magnificent tropical high-Andean tree, it's a fountain for biodiversity yet to recover its homeland here, and be widely protected.
Intriguing bark shapes and colours
Later in this story, when exploring our tiny sample of lichens on Colombian oak at Lake Tota, we will have a wider look at this amazing close-ups from its bark.
Colombian Oak (2021-05-17) by Felipe VelascoOriginal Source: Xieti Nature Reserve (Lake Tota)
Colombian Oak
The Colombian oak (*Quercus humboldtii*) thrives at Lake Tota, a high-Andean ecosystem. This vulnerable and rare tree is a vital source of biodiversity, and its recovery and protection are essential.
But first: Lake Tota, a rapid context
"The lake in the clouds", Lake Tota is a tropical high-Andean wetland, embedded in a páramo watershed, with a water level of 3.015 m high, and a basin top of ~3.900 m asl. It's the largest lake in Colombia, a highly biodiverse country from sea to clouds, but only 3 major lakes.
Artisan fishermen
Artisan fishermen at Lake Tota fish rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Their wooden boats are home-made, as a result of a traditional knowledge and years of trial and error. Safety is quite an issue not well developed, in which they risk themselves daily.
Trout farmers
Far from being artisan fishermen who fish a handful wild trouts a day, trout farming industry on cages is an important economic sector at Lake Tota with a production totallying nearly 2.000 Ton per year, however remain controversial in terms of their environmental standards.
Open green filter and fragile bird habitat
Aquatic vegetation on Lake Tota's shore serves as a large green filter for this high-Andean wetland, and it's also a fragile habitat for birdlife (including endemic and endangered Cistothorus apolinari).
Precious water from Mother Earth
Lake Tota is water fed from páramos, an endemic ecosystem from the highlands of only 5 tropical countries, Colombia being the one with 50% of them. Mother Earth has been truly generous with this region at placing a life source of nearly 2,000 million m3 of water at 3,015 m asl.
Acorn of Colombian Oak (2021-05-17) by Felipe VelascoOriginal Source: Xieti Nature Reserve (Lake Tota)
Colombian oak: Growth from acorn
Oaknut sample of Quercus humboldtii at Xieti Nature Reserve, Lake Tota. Colombian oak can have a vital reproduction from acorn and natural processes in wild conditions, provided its habitat is undisturbed. Let's view some of its habitat and growth next to this high-Andean lake!
Acorn of Colombian Oak (2021-05-17) by Felipe VelascoOriginal Source: Xieti Nature Reserve (Lake Tota)
Oak Seed Variety
Seeds of Colombian oak fall down in different shapes, sizes and maturity stages.
Acorn of Colombian Oak (2021-05-17) by Felipe VelascoOriginal Source: Xieti Nature Reserve (Lake Tota)
Colombian Oak's Footprint
Peering into the topsoil around Colombian oaks reveals a world of microorganisms and organic matter, crucial for the tree's health.
Acorn of Colombian Oak (2021-05-17) by Felipe VelascoOriginal Source: Xieti Nature Reserve (Lake Tota)
Colombian Oak Seeds: A Closer Look
From green to dark brown, Colombian oak seeds dot the topsoil around the tree. Their appearance varies in shape and maturity, offering a glimpse into the tree's lifecycle.
Topsoil - Colombian Oak (2021-05-17) by Felipe VelascoOriginal Source: Xieti Nature Reserve (Lake Tota)
Oak Seed Shelter
Dry leaves from the Colombian oak create a special, sheltered space for its seeds to germinate. This natural refuge is crucial for the tree's continued growth.
Acorn of Colombian Oak (2021-05-17) by Felipe VelascoOriginal Source: Xieti Nature Reserve (Lake Tota)
Germination's Promise
The seeds of the Colombian oak, known as acorns, hold the promise of new life. These tiny treasures represent the cycle of growth and renewal that sustains the forest.
Topsoil - Colombian Oak (2021-05-17) by Felipe VelascoOriginal Source: Xieti Nature Reserve (Lake Tota)
Seeds and Fungi: A Partnership
Colombian oak acorns thrive in the humid topsoil of their native environment. This moisture is essential for germination, and fungi often coexist with the seeds, forming a symbiotic relationship.
Colombian Oak (2021-05-17) by Felipe VelascoOriginal Source: Xieti Nature Reserve (Lake Tota)
Native nursery
Despite not being dense nor large, the small forest of Colombian oak at Xieti Nature Reserve is providing a hopeful ecosystem for Quercus humboldtii to germinate naturally and grow.
Moss - Quercus (2021-05-17) by Felipe VelascoOriginal Source: Xieti Nature Reserve (Lake Tota)
Moss and Quercus
Moss is undoubtedly a sign for humidity, a clear indicator of the topsoil habitat conditions where Colombian oak acorns can properly germinate.
Colombian Oak Plant (2021-05-17) by Felipe VelascoOriginal Source: Xieti Nature Reserve (Lake Tota)
New plants
The Colombian oak's journey begins with a tiny sprout. This delicate seedling emerges from the acorn, ready to take root and grow.
A Promise of Growth
Colombian oak acorns, once dispersed around the forest, begin to germinate, producing delicate sprouts that represent the continuation of the tree's legacy.
Colombian Oak Plant (2021-05-17) by Felipe VelascoOriginal Source: Xieti Nature Reserve (Lake Tota)
Colombian Oak Seedlings Cluster
These young Colombian oaks, growing in groups, demonstrate the tree's ability to reproduce naturally. This clustering suggests a healthy ecosystem where acorns are readily dispersed and germinate.
Colombian Oak (2021-05-17) by Felipe VelascoOriginal Source: Xieti Nature Reserve (Lake Tota)
Tiny Oaks, Big Promise
A healthy bunch of Colombian oak seedlings thrive at Xieti Nature Reserve. This small forest provides hope for the future of this vulnerable species, despite its limited size. These seedlings are a testament to the tree's ability to reproduce naturally in a protected environment.
New plants of Colombian oak, next to Lake Tota. Its small forest at Xieti Nature Reserve is providing an appropriate habitat for this species to reproduce in wild conditions.
Lichen - Quercus (2021-05-17) by Felipe VelascoOriginal Source: Xieti Nature Reserve (Lake Tota)
Time for lichens!
Lichens are fascinating organisms, formed by a symbiotic partnership between a fungus and an algae. The fungus provides structure and protection, while the algae performs photosynthesis, creating food for both partners.
Close-up on Colombian Oak
A detailed look at the Colombian oak's bark reveals a tapestry of textures and colors, providing a unique habitat for lichens to thrive. These tiny organisms play a vital role in the ecosystem, breaking down bark and contributing to nutrient cycling.
Moss - Quercus (2021-05-17) by Felipe VelascoOriginal Source: Xieti Nature Reserve (Lake Tota)
Home for lichens
The Colombian oak's bark creates a complex and varied micro-habitat, providing a perfect setting for the diverse lichen species that call it home. These organisms contribute to the tree's ecosystem and add to its visual beauty.
Moss - Quercus (2021-05-17) by Felipe VelascoOriginal Source: Xieti Nature Reserve (Lake Tota)
Unique habitat
The textured bark of the Colombian oak provides a diverse micro-habitat for a variety of lichens. This symbiotic relationship is a fascinating example of nature's intricate connections.
Oak Bark Microcosm
The bark of the Colombian oak is a bustling micro-ecosystem, teeming with life. Lichens, a fascinating combination of fungus and algae, thrive in this unique environment, contributing to nutrient cycling and adding to the tree's visual appeal.
Take a closer look at these vibrant lichens, thriving on the Colombian oak bark. They showcase the intricate relationship between these organisms and their environment.
These lichen samples offer a glimpse into the vibrant and complex world of this high-Andean ecosystem. The lichens' presence on the Colombian oak bark highlights the vital role these organisms play in nutrient cycling and the overall health of the forest.
The image showcases the intricate relationship between lichens and the Colombian oak, emphasizing how these organisms thrive in unique micro-habitats. These vibrant lichens are a testament to the diversity and beauty found within this high-Andean ecosystem.
A detailed examination of the Colombian oak reveals a vibrant tapestry of lichens, showcasing the intricate relationship between these organisms and their environment.
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