Splendid fungus

Day 272 #365DaysWild

Splendid fungus fruiting beneath sycamore in an area enriched with bark chippings.

Ann suggests it is a member of the Psathyrella group but it requires microscope work to identify to species.

Research suggests that these are widespread but not necessarily common.

The mycelia of fungi interact with the roots of plants in 

what is sometimes called ‘the wood-wide web’. The relationship between plants and their fungal partners isn’t fully understood but is generally mutually-beneficial - saprophites.

When fruiting, as these are, they can release many thousands of spores which will be carried by the wind and settle to become the next generation.

There can be specific invertebrates who feed on them.

A first for us in the garden.

‪STOP PRESS: Grandson has discovered our squeaky wheelbarrow wheel makes Merlin app find whooper swans. Hilarious!! Especially for the neighbours!‬