Friday 2 May 2008

Mushroom or Toadstool?

Last year, one of the ancient maple trees lining the street became unsafe, and was cut down.

The roots were left to rot, and this spring I noticed a new visitor... an interesting fungus colony has appeared around the stump.

I tried searching the internet but can't find any references.

Can anyone name this fungus?
YoungerSon... you took mycology courses at Uni... any ideas?

12 comments:

  1. Looks like puff balls to me . . . when you stamp on them, they release their spores. Does that happen?

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  2. I sure don't know what the fungus is but I know that as the wood rots underneath, they will keep coming for many years.Watch them after a good rainy day! We have been battling them on our front lawn since our Linden tree was taken down. I would guess that the soil is composting with the rotting wood and is therefore rich.
    Willie.

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  3. Looks like lots of little onions to me. Made an interesting photo.

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  4. You do find the most interesting and unusual items to photograph! As to the exact name of the fungus? Nope, no clue.

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  5. They look very much like what I know as Sulpher Tuft

    Sulphur Tuft
    Hypholoma fasciculare
    Height up to 8cm

    Extremely common and widespread fungus, found growing in large clumps on the dead stumps and fallen branches of deciduous trees. Appears May - ­November. Cap sulphur-yellow, darker in centre. Gills and flesh yellow. Stem often curved.

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  6. Hmmm, I don't think I'll risk any with my full English, but they do make for an interesting picture..!

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  7. I've never seen so much fungi in one clump. Its interesting but I hope it doesn't take over your whole yard.
    Great photo opportunity. Keep us updated.

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  8. Thanks for the support re. Fragrance-girl work, but oh those heels suck, plus I've had an allergic reaction to something I had to sell! Weird, I'm all blotchy right now, not a cute look. There must be a better way to earn a few bob! Well, if I were a mushroom, I know where I'd want to hang out...mmm, maple syrup...maye it's some tiny form of fungi that's just gotten big n round due to excess maple syrupy consumption! Eric actually bought the Canadiens game online for us to watch live, at 1am tonight!

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  9. Interesting looking fungi. I don't recognize it. Keep us posted!

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  10. I remember seeing them as a child when many of the elms in our neighbourhood had to be cut down because of an illness. What their called, tough?... No clue.

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  11. No idea. Looks interesting though!

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  12. I love mushrooms but those don't look very appetizing.

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All comments welcome.... unless your name is Anonymous..