Friday, July 24, 2009

July Fungi 2

I can't explain the excitement experienced when I stumble across a new species during my fungi hunts! Today was no exception when I came across a new Bird's Nest fungus. The stunning orange inner of the fruiting body is one thing; the fuzzy exterior is another!

(Click images to enlarge)

No. 1 Nidula emodensis showing peridioles immersed in water. As we know, Bird's Nest fungi rely on rain for spore dispersal. (A fortunate encounter today, I suspect!)


No. 2 Omphalotus nidiformis or Ghost fungus. Although obviously past its prime, this solitary example measured 24cm diameter.



No. 3. The beautiful, pristine white gills of this fungus was stunning. About 3cm in diameter. It might be Limacella pitereka.

No.4. Not 100% sure, but this may possibly be Marasmius elegans.
Cap width was around 3cm.
Corrections welcome, as per the norm!







Thursday, July 16, 2009

July Fungi 1

I've been a bit busy in the garden to do much fungi photography. After 40mm of rain over the past weekend, certain chores had to be undertaken before weeds and lawns became totally out of control! Today, I had a chance to take a short wander into fungi country.

(Click images to enlarge)


No. 1 Schizophyllum commune or Splitgill



No. 2 This is probably Hexagonia vesparia, a hoof-shaped polypore.

No. 3 An interesting jelly that I think is possibly Dacryopinax spathularia. It seems to differ from Calocera species because of the tongue-like shape of the branches. Dacryopinax spathularia is a delicacy in China, apparently.

No. 4 This is Tremella mesenterica again but this one was quite large, about 5.5cm wide.
No. 5 Omphalina umbellifera
No. 6 Ompahlina chromacea
No. 7 A nice little display of the Bird's Nest fungus, Crucibulem laeve, showing various stages of development.
No. 8 a puffball, Lycoperdon species.