Mariton: Fungi Walk
Our Tuesday Nature Walk had a special guest. Marion (Martie) Kyde, a mycologist, lead the walk as we discovered fungi. We saw about a dozen types of fungi and learned a lot of new information.
For instance, I always called shelf fungi like the ones above Turkey Tails. They have bands of different colors like a turkey’s tail. However, I learned that Turkey Tails are polypores. There are similar looking fungi that have “teeth-like” structures underneath, instead of pores. Some even have gills underneath. So, now when I look closely, I will know the difference.
Witch’s Butter Tremella mesenterica is an interesting fungus. I learned a long time ago, that you can let this dry up. Then a drop of water will re-hydrate it as you watch, bringing out the yellow color again. Like magic.
This is one of the poisonous puffballs. Specifically Poison Pigskin Puffball (Scleroderma sp.).
While not a fungus, this slime mold known commonly as Wolf’s Milk Slime is small, but very pretty.
A big thank you goes out to Martie who shared her knowledge and answered numerous questions about different fungi. It was an interesting morning. (Phots by Carole Mebus.)