Despite the noticeably dry last few months, recent wet weather brings one sure sign of autumn; the appearance of fungi. At this time of year many varieties of fungi are blooming and RSPB Pulborough Brooks is one of the places to discover Penny bun, False Deathcap, Blusher, Sulpher Tuft, Parasol, Amethyst Deceiver and The Flirt.
Fungi provide a vital service by decomposing dead matter, returning the nutrients from fallen leaves and twigs to the soil where it can be taken up again by plants. Without fungi we wouldn’t have bread or beer!
Fungi generally like damp conditions, but many have quite specific requirements. Some will grow only with certain species of plants or animals, so ensuring that their host organisms are conserved is vital. It’s also important to leave dead wood, which is important for many fungi and invertebrates.
Fungi are hugely diverse, living on, in, and around the plants and animals that provide their sustenance. Others form partnerships with plants, taking sugars from the plant and passing it nutrients in return. Some plants cannot survive without their fungal partner.
For example orchid seeds are tiny and they do not contain enough food for the developing plant. They can only germinate after they have been infected with a fungus, which passes nutrients to the seedling, allowing it to grow.
Pulborough Brooks promotes a self-guided ‘top-trumps fungi trail’ around the heathland which is popular with visitors. To have a go, pick up the trail sheet at the visitor centre.
The RSPB reserve, located off the A283 between Pulborough and Storrington, is open daily.
About the Author: Samantha Stokes is Communications Manager at the RSPB Pulborough Brooks reserve in Sussex.
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VisitSussex | 10:22 November 30
Great point Nikki - sometimes the beauty of fungi is just to see them growing naturally.
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The UK's mushrooms are some of the best in the world, but just remember to check with the landowner before removing mushrooms and ensure you pick them in the correct way so as not to damage the mushrooms for future crops.