The world of fungi is fascinating and the vary of dimension ,shapes and colors are beautiful.Extra importantly are their function within the ecosystem. There are the recyclers that breakdown natural matter , you’ll see these round fallen logs, in compost or commercially rising in managed natural mixes. As an orchardist the extra fascinating for me are the Mycorrhizal fungi that dwell in mutually helpful relationships –a symbiosis with the roots of vegetation. Its thought that 90% of vegetation are helped by fungi to make the most of vitamins from the soil.The plant receives moisture and safety in alternate for phosphorous, nitrogen and different components the plant won’t be capable of get hold of for itself. The fungal hyphae (tiny threads) can journey lengthy distances from the plant to gather what the plant wants.Some examples of those fungi come from the Amanita, Cortinarius, Inocybe, Russula households. Many Australian native vegetation have these symbiotic relationships creating an enormous array of fungi that also have to be found and studdied. For extra info a wonderful e book ‘Tales from the Underground” by David W Wolfe or you’ll be able to be a part of your Native Fungal Research Group or take a look at Fungimap.
Whereas these fungi are helpful to vegetation some, for instance Dying Caps (Amanita phalloides)are lethal toxic to people.Within the above picture there are 2 on the highest left.