Fungi Again

As Autumn began we were bemoaning that there were very few fungi around the reserve.  It was warm but not damp.  Now that Autumn is drawing to a close, it is mild and wet.  Fungi are flourishing and new species are being recorded.

However there are still some of the old favourites around.  On the first of November a round white fungus was observed and after initial excitement we realised that it was a Fly Agaric.  Spores are released from the gills.

Some fungi are now 'going over' and certainly do not have the ahh factor.  Insects and slugs often feed on the fungi.  Discussion took place as to what had done the damage to this one.

Yellow Rattle seeds were scattered across the middle moor.  This semi-parasitic plant reduces the growth of grasses and allows flowers to grow.  Across the middle moor, bright green, almost circles of grass, are easily noticed.  These are places where there are mycelium of fungi, growing in the soil, releasing nutrients for the grass to grow!  A watch will be kept to see if any fruiting bodies appear.

Spring and Summer could be interesting to see which flowers grow where!