Members’ Finds, July to December 2024
Following the success of our Members' Finds project introduced in 2020, here is our new page for July to December 2024 to which members are again invited to contribute. Please email Penny photos of anything you find - even of species already on previous lists. Common or rare: all are welcome! Thanks to all our many contributors, we now have well over 1000 species illustrated here, all from Buckinghamshire!
• Aim to show all aspects of the fruitbody even if this necessitates several photos.
• Please send images as an attachment and not embedded into the email text.
• All photos should be captioned with fungus name if known, site, date, your initials. EG Amanita muscaria Penn Wood 01.10.2024 PC1.
• Please include in your email as much detail as possible (eg size, smell, substrate, habitat, microscopic details if available). All clues are vital when identifying solely from photos.
• If possible collect and retain at least one specimen until you've heard back from Penny in case further investigation is required - records of rarities are invalid without voucher material which may well need to be dried for molecular sequencing to confirm.
• NEW FOR 2024! Click on Previous finds at the end of any entry to view all other Members' Finds entries for that species.
• NEW FOR 2024! We now have a SEARCH FACILITY for the LATIN MASTERLIST INDEX, speeding up access and automatically grouping all entries for any one species together for convenient comparison etc.
• The regularly updated list of entries remains in place as previously, in a choice of either Latin binomial or English common names.
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Only entries marked with this symbol have been microscopically examined. There is no guarantee on identifications made of entries lacking this symbol though all photos are checked and selected by Penny to the best of her ability. Basic accompanying notes are also Penny's.
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Entries marked with this symbol have been confirmed or identified using DNA sequencing.
HAPPY HUNTING!
Click on thumbnail to see full size
For the complete and regularly updated list of entries click Latin or English
To search the LATIN MASTERLIST INDEX since its inception click here
Contributors / Photographers: Bob Simpson; Chris Grimbly; Claire Williams; Gill Ferguson; Greg Douglas; Jackie Ewan; Jesper Launder; Jim Wills; John Catterson; Mark Harper; Mick Jones; Neil Fletcher; Peter Townsend; Stephen Plummer.
Rare sightings 15 |
New to Buckinghamshire 7 |
New to UK 0 |
July August September October November December
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October 17th 2024
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October 17th Arrhenia obscurata (Dark Navel) In a mossy roadside bank in Gerrards Cross Jesper Launder spotted this special little species which is new to the county. It keyed out comfortably leaving little doubt over its identity in Jesper's mind thought there appear to be just 13 UK records in FRDBI. The dingy colour, widely spaced decurrent gills together with the sunken translucent umbilicate cap seem definitive together with spore size. A nice find. |
October 15th 2024
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October 15th Russula sanguinaria Russula sanguinaria This genus has been extremely poorly represented so far this season. Jesper Launder was pleased, therefore, to find this collection under Pine at Audley Chalfont Dene retirement village. The species is host specific with Pine and the stem is characteristically cap coloured whihc helps to separate it in the field form other red-capped species. Previous finds |
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October 15th Stropharia inuncta (Smoky Roundhead) At Stampwell Farm in a grassy area Jackie Ewan noticed this rather innocuous-looking collection. This is a species which can confuse and is very different from the distinctively coloured blue-green grassland Roundheads. Its viscid surface, gills which eventually darken as the spores mature, and stem with a somewhat ephemeral ring - seen in the RH specimens here - are all good pointers to recognise in the field, though it is less common than the blue-green members of the genus. Previous finds |
October 14th 2024
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October 14th Ramariopsis kunzei (Ivory Coral) In Jordans Village Jesper Launder found this delicate branching coral in a grassy patch, recognised it as having a very different jizz from the woodland Clavulina coralloides (Crested Coral). This is an a unusual grassland species though we now have quite a few records in recent years. Previous finds |
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October 14th Crepidotus mollis Crepidotus mollis In Gerrards Cross Jim Wills noticed this beautifully formed example of a large Crepidotus which owing to its size he guessed was likely to be C. mollis. Not only does this species get much bigger that other Oysterlings but it also has an elastic cuticle so that the cap can be stretched sideways to reveal its transparent covering. This makes an easy way to identify it in the field though others in the genus always need a microscopic check to name to species. Previous finds |
October 13th 2024
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October 13th Pucciniastrum agrimoniae (a species of rust with no English name) Whilst visiting Holtspur Bank in Beaconsfield Sarah Ebdon noticed this rust affecting the leaves of Common Agrimony, then checked it at home, discovering that the rust is host specific to this plant, is quite common wherever the plant is found though is not that often recorded. We have just one previous county record from 2003, so this is anew entry for Finds. |
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October 13th Chalciporus piperatus (Peppery Bolete) This is a species Penny has been on the lookout for but not found yet this season. Here it was found at Oakley Wood, Bernwood Forest, by Phil Townsend under Birch and near to Amanita muscaria with which it appears to have a close relationship. However, both species are often found fruiting without their partner but maybe the link is ever present via their mycelium therefore hidden from sight?! Previous finds |
October 12th 2024
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October 12th Lyophyllum paelochroum (a rare Domecap with no English name) In Jordans village under Cedar Jesper Launder was intrigued by this collection which on handling started turning faintly then strongly blue before becoming almost black. This pointed to some species of genus Lyophyllum and it keyed straight out in Funga Nordica to this rare species, also included in Kibby vol 2. However, though the name is accepted in Species Fungorum it is not listed in the FRDBI dictionary, nor can Penny trace an earlier name for it. It is obviously a significant find and will be sequenced but unless someone can enlighten her Penny is at a loss as to how to record this species ............... |
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October 12th Marasmius oreades (Fairy Ring Champignon) In a meadow near Quainton Mark Harper came across this impressive partial ring and sent Penny the photos to check if he was correct in his iD. It can hardly be anything else forming this enormous ring which will no doubt have been increasing in size for years and will probably continue to do so, getting ever larger as the fungus uses up available nutrients so searched further and further afield. Sometimes these rings get so large they can be spotted from light aircraft. Previous finds |
October 11th 2024
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October 11th Coprinus comatus (Lawyer's Wig) This rather drab-looking cluster was found at Stampwell Farm by Jackie Ewan. The species tends to catch the eye when fresh, white and extremely woolly / shaggy but like many Inkcaps that stage is shortlived as the deliquescent stage sets in and can be seen just starting here with the wet black rim to the caps. Previous finds |
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October 11th Cortinarius daulnoyae (Strapping Webcap) Near Burnham Beeches under Hornbeam Jesper Launder spotted these mushrooms and as he approached he noticed a strong unpleasant chemical smell akin to that of the white smelly Tricholoma species. Thinking at first it was a Webcap in Section Telamonia he failed to key it out, then after further research tried the key for Section Phlegmacium with instant success! All features fitted, including the immature pale lilac specimen (photo 3), the somewhat contorted shape when older and of course this remarkable smell. There, however, appears to be only one previous UK record so this is a very rare species here and an exciting find. The material will be sequenced. |
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October 11th Cortinarius pilatii (Lemonbalm webcap) In Burnham Beeches Jesper Launder noticed this small LBG, under Oak and Birch which at home keyed out nicely to this species. Clearly belonging in Section Telamonia, this is one we found on our BFG visit to Hockeridge Wood just two days earlier also under Oak when it appeared to be new to the county. (How many times this happens?!) The white rim of veil around the cap edge together with silvery streaky stem and a delicate sweet smell are the key field characters. |
October 10th 2024
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October 10th Hygrocybe reidii (Honey Waxcap) At Stampwell Farm Jackie Ewan found several Waxcaps coming up including this one. Though similar to other small species it can be distinguished in the field by its orange tint, pale gills, and if you squash the cap a bit it has a distinct smell of honey. Previous finds |
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October 10th Hygrocybe miniata (Vermillion Waxcap) At Stampwell Farm Jackie Ewan found several Waxcaps coming up including this one. Though similar to other small red species it can be distinguished in the field by its dry cap and stem, the cap surface also finely squamulose with golden flecks clearly seen here. Previous finds |
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October 10th Hygrocybe glutinipes (Glutinous Waxcap) At Stampwell Farm Jackie Ewan found several Waxcaps coming up including this one. Though similar to other small yellow species its somewhat sticky cap and stem - especially after a rain spell - are distinctive. Previous finds |
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October 10th Entoloma porphyrophaeum (Lilac Webcap) At Stampwell Farm Jackie Ewan found this unusual waxcap which has a subtle purplish pink tint, also rather a thick stem for the genus and the cap tends to have an umbo. Microscopic characters are also quite distinct which helps with the ID in a genus a tricky as this one. We have just a few county records and this is a new entry for Finds. |
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October 10th Xerocomellus cisalpinus (Bluefoot Bolete) In Austenwood Common under Oak with Lime nearby Jim Wills found this young bolete which when he assessed all the characters pointed him to this species though to Penny it appears more like X. pruinatus (Matt Bolete). However, Jim comments on it quickly blueing and also on the white flesh within rather than yellow, both feature favouring X. cisalpinus. This group of species are always tricky and when young look extremely similar. Previous finds |
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October 10th Podoscypha multizonata (Zoned Rosette) In Beaconsfield in the grounds of a school Jesper Launder saw this impressive beast which was over 1 ft across. However, he checked the microscopic characters to make sure because to him it appeared underdeveloped for the species, in which when fully grown this specimen will be enormous! It appears so distinctive, also from the number of UK records not that rare, but we have just two county records, both from Black Park in the early 2000s. A nice find! |
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October 10th Cortinarius subbalaustinus (Burnt Orange Webcap) In Beaconsfield in deep moss under Birch Jesper Launder found this cluster of Cortinarius which needed work at home to identify. This is an uncommon large member of Section Telamonia which associates with Birch, has a streaky hygrophanous orange cap which fades, a stem with clavate base and a sour smell. Jesper commented that it seemed to fit all details well and was a new species for him. It is also new to the county. |
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October 10th Dermoloma pseudocuneifolium (Dark Crazed Cap) In a grassy garden in Beaconsfield amongst many Parrot Waxcaps, Jesper Launder noticed this group of LBJs and suspected they were the common grassland species D. cuneifolium. Checking at home, however, he noted that the main difference between that species and this much rarer one is that D. pseudocuneifolium has mildly amyloid spores which tallied with this collection perfectly. We have just two previous county records for this species though it may well be that it is not that rare but is easily confused with the commoner species unless the spores are checked with Melzers reagent. Previous finds |
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October 10th Gymnopus obscuroides (a Toughshank with no English name) In Beaconsfield Jesper Launder noticed this rather small and dark LBJ - a species of Gymnopus, and wondered if it might be G. fuscopurpureus which turns green where treated with KOH but is otherwise very similar to G. obscuroides. At home KOH proved negative, though there is a further very similar species which we find at Stoke Poges Memorial Gardens and now has been sequenced as Collybiopsis villosipes with very few UK records as yet. It would therefore be good to get a sample of this Toughshank sequenced, especially as the Collybiopsis is not included in available books such as the 4 Kibby volumes. See the Finds entry under that name for comparison. Previous finds |
October 9th 2024
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October 9th Clavaria fumosa (Smoky Spindles) At Prestwood Churchyard Sarah Ebdon found this beautiful and subtle-coloured club coming up in its usual grassy spot near a large Yew. Though not a common species it appears to be a regular at this site where Penny recalls being excited to find it for the first time 20 years ago, never having seen it before. Previous finds |
.jpg "Photo © Sarah Ebdon") |
October 9th Clavulina rugosa (Wrinkled Club) At Prestwood Churchyard this was one of several species found by Sarah Ebdon. It favours grassy woodland glades rather than pure grassland sites and here was quite near to trees. It has rather distorted uneven clubs with blunt tips sometimes diverging and grows in groups though not in tight clusters. Previous finds |
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October 9th Cystolepiota seminuda (Bearded Dapperling) Along a grassy path at Beaconsfield Golf Course Jesper Launder noticed this little group. Their small size together white free gills, grainy cap surface and a tendency for the stem to be reddish in the lower half were enought to make the ID, confirmed by checking its tiny spores. Though quite a common species this is a new entry for Finds. |
October 8th 2024
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October 8th Entoloma serrulatum (Blue-edged Pinkgill) At Stampwell Farm Jackie Ewan found this species together with some other Pinkgills in a heathy grassy area. It is one of the small blue Pinkgills (placed in Section Leptonia) which have a blue edge to the gills and also has a roughened cap surface. Though apparently one of the commonest of this group of species, we do not have that many county records. Previous finds |
October 7th 2024
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October 7th Leucoagaricus cf. carneifolius (a rare Dapperling with no English name) In mossy grass under a large Yew at Prestwood Churchyard Penny noticed what she at first thought might be a small Agaricus - two immature frutibodies, one with ring still covering the gills, the other with ring just disrupting to reveal white crowded gills which had a faint pink glow. The caps were velvety smooth and pale grey but to her surprise a scratch to both cap and stem turned neither yellow nor pink as one would possibly expect in Agaricus. At home there was no sign of the gills becoming darker, nor was there much smell, but there was no point in attempting a spore print with such an immature specimen. So Leucoagaricus seemed the likeliest genus and the only near match seems to be carneifolius though there are a few discrepancies, hence the cf in the identification. There are under 30 UK records so this is clearly one for sequencing. Previous finds |
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October 7th Entoloma sericellum (Cream Pinkgill) At Prestwood Churchyard Penny found good numbers of this pale Pinkgill coming up in the short mossy grass. Not being a particular fan of the genus she was unsure of the species but as it was fruiting so prolifically she was keen to determine it. Though many online images of the species show a pure white mushroom, she learnt that this is not necessarily the case (as the English name reflects) and it may be that many white Pinkgills are named E. sericellum in error. Anyway the micro-details and general description fitted this collection well. Surprisingly though we have many county records (which I now have some doubts about!) this has not been recorded here before. Previous finds |
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October 7th Entoloma prunuloides (Mealy Pinkgill) Having received a photo of this species just taken at Prestwood Churchyard by a non-member wanting to know what it was, Penny decided to visit herself and was suitably rewarded, finding not only this same specimen but a load of other interesting species as well. This is quite a distinctive Pinkgill with thick flesh and stem and a distinct smell of meal - quite often found in this genus. She'd found it here last year which also helped though we have only a handful of other known grassland sites for it but it is by no means rare. Previous finds |
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October 7th Hygrocybe citrinovirens (Citrine Waxcap) At Prestwood Churchyard Penny was delighted to see this unusual waxcap whic- both here and at Stowe Landscape Gardens, our only two sites for it. The conical shape together with distinctly greenish yellow colour - very different from other yellow waxcaps - were enough to confirm it, furthermore it was in the identical spot to last year! Previous finds |
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October 7th Entoloma corvinum (Crow Pinkgill) At Prestwood Churchyard Penny found these little beauties together with a range of other nice things - a treat after the recent rather disappointing weeks. These small grassland Pinkgills with blue colours belong to Section Leptonia and though there's no difficulty in placing them within this section Penny never finds them easy to identify to species! She worked hard with the scope and various keys, finding some conflicting descriptions which caused some doubts, but ended up with this species which does seem to fit well. However, on finding that we've no previous Bucks records she fears the name is incorrect though this is just the sort of site where special and interesting grassland species would to be found. As so often happens, Jackie Ewan also worked on and identified this species at Stampwell Farm, making collections on both the 8th and 10th. Both Penny's collections will be sequenced and this entry updated accordingly as necessary. |
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October 7th Infundibulicybe geotropa (Trooping Funnel) In longish grass on Austenwood Common Jim Wills came across this impressive display of fruitbodies, identifying them on the spot as this species. The typical rounded central bump of the caps is clearly visible here and this is a large showy species usually with tall stems which are presumably somewhat hidden from view by the grass here. The species is common in grassy glades in woodland as well as grassy areas. Previous finds |
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October 7th Cortinarius talus (Honey Webcap) Under Beech in Chalfont St. Peter Jesper Launder found this pair and noticed a striking smell of honey once collected. We have just three previous county records though it is described as a common species belonging to Section Phlegmacium, and though here they are immature and not yet expanded the wide stem base typical of the species at maturity is already visible. Found under Oak and Birch as well, it is the honey smell which is the key diagnostic feature. This is a new entry for Finds. |
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October 7th Gliophorus psittacinus (Parrot Waxcap) At Prestwood Churchyard this nice fresh collection was one of several waxcaps found here by Penny today. It was suitably slimy after a recent shower and the green caps and stem apices left no doubt as to its identity - one of our commonest but most pleasing grassland species to find. Previous finds |
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October 7th Lepista sordida (Sordid Blewit) In mossy grass under a large Yew at Prestwood Churchyard Penny spotted this singleton with brownish but distinctly violaceous cap, and turning it over the obvious violet gills confirmed her suspcions that it was this species - considerably smaller and thinner-fleshed than the similar L. nuda (Wood Blewit). It favours grassland habitats but can also occur in woodland grassy glades but is not a s common as the larger species. Previous finds |
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October 7th Dermoloma cuneifolium (Crazed Cap) At Prestwood Churchyard Penny found this small cluster of grey-brown little mushrooms with dry caps and pale gills; a quick sniff detected the mealy smell which confirmed the species, not at all unusual in unimproved grassland. Previous finds |
October 5th 2024
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October 5th Rhodotus palmatus (Wrinkled Peach) At Linford Wood Justin Long spotted this attractive and unusual species in two separate spots, the mature specimen being on the end of an Ash log rather than on Elm with which it traditionally associates. Since the demise of Elms in the UK this species became something of a rarity but now seems to be making a comeback with increasing reports of its occurrence on other fallen deciduous woods. In fact a week after this find of Justin's on Ash Peter Townsend reported finding it on Beech at Ragpits Reserve (photo 4). In damp conditions and when fresh and just developing it tends to have these coloured droplets, and the wrinkled surface is showing beautifully in photo 3. Previous finds |
October 4th 2024
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October 4th Clathrus archeri (Devil's Fingers) At Stampwell Farm Jackie has recently noticed countless numbers of the gelatinous 'eggs' of this extraordinary species, related to stinkhorns, and at last found one actually emerged! No longer a rarity in the county, it is another fungus apparently on the increase though with a limited number of sites where it does seem to recur once established. Certainly Stampwell Farm is a hotspot! Previous finds |
October 3rd 2024
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October 3rd Cordyceps militaris (Scarlet Caterpillarclub) At Burnham Beeches the sharp-eyed Gill Ferguson spotted a couple of these in the grass, this particular specimen being a double spike with even a third beginning to make an appearance. Underneath there will no doubt have been an unfortunate caterpillar larvae. The species is not rare but despite its bright colour is not easy to spot, often in grassy hedgerows. The photo was taken by Claire Williams. Previous finds |
October 2nd 2024
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October 2nd Cortinarius bergeronii (Chalky Webcap) Near Marlow Common under a mature Beech where this particular species has been found and sequenced several times, Penny made a deliberate stop to see if by any chance it was showing. There it was, a stunning member of Section Phlegmacium having a slimy cap but dry stem and only found in calcareous soil under Beech and occasionally Oak. She moved on rapidly but suggested that Sarah Ebdon and Stephen Plummer might like to return and take a look as well, which they did! Adding a drop of KOH to the cap turns instantly blood red as can be seen in photo 1, though this is not a unique reaction and until quite recently it was assumed it proved the species to be C. elegantissimus (Dapper Webcap). However, DNA has shown there are two extremely similar species though C. bergeronii has smaller spores and now appears to be more common. Many older records of C. elegantissimus are therefore much more likely to be this species. The photos are Sarah's. Previous finds |
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October 2nd Mallocybe cf. malenconii (a Fibrecap with no English name) Near Marlow Common under a mature Beech which regularly produces interesting species, Sarah Ebdon and Stephen Plummer noticed this small but unusual-looking Fibrecap and bravely made an attempt at identifying it - no easy task! On sending the photo to Penny she recalled collecting a Mallocybe species from this exact spot in 2021 which was sequenced - the first confirmed sequenced UK record of M. malenconii. She has little doubt that today's collection will prove to be the same but it will be dried and sequenced to make sure. This is a new entry for Finds. The photo is Stephen's. |
September 30th 2024
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September 30th Stropharia coronilla (Garland Roudhead) In a grassy part of Stampwell Farm Jackie Ewan recognised this quite unusual grassland species though she'd not seen it here very frequently. It was a species Derek used to record regularly from his paddock in Oving but we have no records of it since 2011. The yellow cap and distinct grooved ring on the stem which gradually becomes coloured with the dark spores (hence the name garland) are the distinguishing field characters to look for, then confirmation from the microscopic characters is needed if in doubt. This is a new species for Finds. |
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September 30th Mycena pseudocorticola (Steely Bonnet) On a mossy Oak trunk at Stampwell Farm Jackie Ewan reports finding this beautiful cluster. This is now the third recent finding of a species considered rare in this area several years ago so presumably is either becoming much more prevalent or this maybe a reflecting of more people noticing it. Previous finds |
September 28th 2024
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September 28th Rugosomyces persicolor (rare Domecap with no common name) In Bradenham Churchyard Sarah Ebdon spotted this little pink beauty in the shortish grass, and checking it at home came to the conclusion that it must be this particular species on account of its decidedly strigose (hairy) stem base which according to Kibby vol 2 separates it from the common grassland species Calocybe carnea (Pink Domecap, now also moved and named Rugosomyces carneus). What Sarah didn't realise (as there's no mention in the text) is that this is a rare species with extremely few UK records as yet! So the material will be sequenced to confirm or otherwise as if proven it is clearly new to the county. |
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September 28th Inocybe calospora (Maritime Mine Fibrecap) At Turville Heath under the limes Penny found three reddish brown LBJs and guessed they were Fibrecaps but it was not until she checked one with a scope at home that she twigged what the species was. Just a quick glance is all that is needed because the spores of this species are unique and round like tiny maritime mines covered in spikes - always a thrill to discover! It is not at all common in this area and was new to the county when it turned up in Jesper Launder's garden in 2022! We also found it on our BFG visit to Rushmere Estate last year, so this is the third county record. Previous finds |
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September 28th Inocybe cf obscurobadia (a Fibrecap with no common name) At Turville Heath Penny found this small LBJ amongst the many more brightly coloured Fibrecaps coming up under the Limes. When she came to examine it at home she noticed a distinctive smell of Pelargonium which instantly alerted her to the possibility of several Fibrecaps which have that smell as they start to dry a bit. The microscopic details soon led her to this species, not a rarity though new to this site and not one she's come across for several years. This is also a new species for Finds. |
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September 28th Inocybe tyrii (a Fibrecap with no common name) At Turville Heath Penny found the white and lilac Fibrecaps coming up under the Limes in their hundreds today. She is assuming that as several lilac collections from this spot have now been confirmed with sequencing as I. tyrii (which was new to the UK from here in 2022 almost to the day!) that this is also that species. The collection will also be sequenced in due course. Previous finds |
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September 28th Cortinarius hinnuleus (Earthy Webcap) At Turville Heath Penny found a fresh collection of this quite unusual Webcap coming up in its regular spot under Lime where she's found it for the last few years. She was pleased to be able to get confirmation of her ID from Mario Tortelli the next day at Hodgemoor Wood as there are several species close to this one (all members of the notoriously tricky Section Telamonia) which also have these widely spaced gills and an earthy smell. Previous finds |
September 27th 2024
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September 27th Parasola conopilea (Conical Brittlestem) At Bittam's Wood, part of the Dancersend Reserve, Mick Jones was impressed by the sheer numbers of this species coming up in the deciduous litter and obviously triggered by the recent rains. Though now in genus Parasola and as such a member of the Inkcaps, it was (until DNA sequencing proved otherwise) in genus Psathyrella - known as the Brittlestems, thus the reason for its common name which thankfully remains unchanged! Its white stem - which is indeed brittle - and brown conical cap give it a mycenoid appearance though on the tall side for that genus, but one glance at the gills which quickly develop a dark grey-brown colour tells one this belongs to a dark-spored genus and not one related to Mycena. Previous finds |
September 26th 2024
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September 26th Schizophyllum commune (Split Gill) On a felled Oak trunk at Stampwell Farm Jackie Ewan noticed this species just beginning to make an appearance. The pale colour, hairy surface, halfmoon shape (rather like a hairy Crepidotus - Oysterling) and distinctive gill formation (see photo 2) make this an easy one to recognise. Photo 3 is of an immature specimen. Previous finds |
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September 26th Entoloma ameides (Bubblegum Pinkgill) In a grassy patch at Stampwell Farm Jackie Ewan found this singleton Pinkgill and took it home to work on, noting the odd smell which was not mealy as quite a few of this genus are. The microscopic characters keyed out to this quite unusual species which we don't often record. Previous finds |
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September 26th Coprinopsis pseudonivea (Aromatic Inkcap) At Stampwell Farm Jackie Ewan found this Inkcap on a piece of dung, then retained and incubated the piece for a few days and sure enough a nice fresh fruitbody obliged (photo 3). The species is very close to the more common dung associating C. nivea (Snowy Inkcap) but has smaller spores and the characteristic thick coating of veil is not pure white but has a slightly cream pink tint as seen here. It was not known in the UK till 2006 but is now quite a common species. Previous finds |
September 25th 2024
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September 25th Suillellus queletii (Deceiving Bolete) At Stampwell Farm Jackie Ewan found this impressive species where she'd found it before. It was very common last year but all boletes have been in short supply locally this autumn so far. The strongly and quickly blueing flesh when exposed to air, together with the beetroot red stem base are good clues to its identity. Previous finds |
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September 25th Psilocybe semilanceata (Magic Mushroom / Liberty Cap) At Stampwell Farm Jackie Ewan found just this one fruitbody in a grassy field and from its acutely conical cap, long stem and dark gills had no doubt as to its identity. Previous finds |
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September 25th Scleroderma areolatum (Leopard Earthball) At Stampwell Farm under Oak Jackie Ewan noticed this species, recognising it from markings on the surface similar to that of a leopardskin. However, some collections are not so obviously marked and can easily be confused with the somewhat similar S. verrucosum (Scaly Earthball). In fact we regularly have debates in the field comparing the two species and many mycologists would argue that it's unsafe to decide purely from the markings without recourse to a scope to compare the spores. Previous finds |
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September 25th Hygrocybe chlorophana (Golden Waxcap) At Stampwell Farm Jackie Ewan found this bright mushroom in a grassy area - one she knows well from this site and often finds. When small it can be tricky to distinguish from other yellow waxcaps but when full size it is bigger than the other lookalikes. If in doubt a scope is needed to check the length of the gill trama - much longer in this species than many others. Previous finds |
September 24th 2024
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September 24th Lacrymaria lacrymabunda (Weeping Widow) At Rushmere Estate a few days earlier Stephen Plummer noticed a small cluster of brown-capped mushrooms just emerging in a grassy path edge though with no gills showing as yet (photo 1). He was stumped and showed a specimen to Penny the next day who suspected it might be a species of Cortinarius (Webcap) but suggested he return to the spot in the hope of some further developed examples. This he did today when all was revealed! The gills, now just visible, made it obvious this was no Cortinarius as they were far too dark, and their telltale purplish black colour with tears of moisture droplets on the edge left no doubt as to its identity (photo 2). This is a fairly nondescript common brown mushroom which can confuse (as we found!). Another feature to note, besides the distinctive gills and its preference for grassy soil, is the fluffy ring on the stem which can sometimes leave ragged remnants on the cap margin as well.The species is often to be found in churchyards around the gravestones though there is nothing sinister to be read into this association! Previous finds |
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September 24th Neobulgaria pura (Beech Jellydisc) At Rushmere Estate Stephen Plummer notices these nice fresh specimens on a fallen Beech trunk. When pale like this there should be no danger of confusing the species with Ascocoryne sarcoides (Purple Jellydisc) which is smaller, darker and more squiggly(!) though the two can often be found quite close together. Previous finds |
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September 24th Hygrophoropsis aurantiaca (False Chanterelle) At Rushmere Estate Stephen Plummer found this species whilst under Pine. It tends to favour conifer woodland but can also occur in deciduous woods. Noting the sharp edged gills seen here should prevent any confusion with Cantharellus cibarius (Chanterelle) which has much broader 'foldlike' gills, though both species do have a similar colour and general shape. Previous finds |
September 23rd 2024
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September 23rd Porpolomopsis calyptriformis (Pink Waxcap) In Prestwood churchyard Sarah Ebdon was rewarded by finding this beauty. Previously in genus Hygrocybe, a more apt English name is Ballerina, especially as there are now other pink waxcaps, but we'll stay with the official name for now! This species is always considered one of the jewels in the waxcap crown and is not that common though we're lucky enough to have several sites for it in the south of the county. A couple of weeks later when Penny visited this great little grassland site this delightful species was still fruiting (photo 2) Previous finds |
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September 23rd Hygrocybe conica (Blackening Waxcap) In Prestwood churchyard Sarah Ebdon found several waxcaps which she thought were probably H. conica though the typical blackening was hardly apparent. However, after scratching the stem and waiting 30 minutes (photo 2) it became obvious that her first thoughts were correct. This is quite a variable species, known to be a complex, so no doubt will in time be further split up. Previous finds |
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September 23rd Clavaria fragilis (White Spindles) In Prestwood churchyard Sarah Ebdon found several grassland species beginning to appear, this being one of them. It is not that common but quite often found at this site - one of our best for such species - and can be recognised by its habit of growing in loose clusters and lack of a separate stem beneath the club-shaped top section. The spore shape and size is also a useful confirmation, differing from other possibly similar species. Previous finds |
September 20th 2024
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September 20th Baeospora myosura (Conifercone Cap) In Rushmere Estate Stephen Plummer noticed this Pine cone nicely adorned with this little 'mycenoid' species. Apart from always growing on cones, its main distinguishing feature is the extremely crowded and rather shallow gills, and it typically has rather a strigose stem base - very pronounced in this example. It is quite common wherever Pines occur. Previous finds |
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September 20th Lyophyllum decastes (Clustered Domecap) In Rushmere Estate Stephen Plummer found this nice clump in mixed litter, checked its identity at home then showed the collection to Penny and Derek for confirmation. This is a fairly common but nondescript species of woodland paths, quite flexible in texture, its most distinctive characters being its fasciculate habit (ie with stems often conjoining as in Hypholoma fasciculare) and contrasting dark cap with pale gills. Previous finds |
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September 20th Pluteus umbrosus (Velvet Shield) In Bernwood Forest Chris Grimbly found this Pluteus on a felled deciduous trunk. This is one of two species which have a dark gill edge but is distinct in having a finely velvet cap surface which is also on the stem. The other much rarer species, P. atromarginatus, is normally a conifer associate and lacks this cap surface and has a streaky fibrillose stem. The microscopic features are also very different and the safest way to separate the two if in doubt. Previous finds |
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September 20th Phaeolus schweinitzii (Dyer's Mazegill) In Bernwood Forest Chris Grimbly came across this impressive species at the base of a Pine. When fresh and young it appears soft and ochre yellowish with rounded edges though as it expands it hardens with darker reds and browns, becoming large dinner plate size. As the name implies, it has been used as a dye for material and wool in the past and is still used in this way by enthusiasts. It is always associated with conifers, growing on the roots usually quite near to the trunk. Previous finds |
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September 20th Volvariella bombycina (Silky Rosegill) On a fallen deciduous trunk in Bernwood Forest Chris Grimbly spotted this unusual species. The easiest way to describe it is very similar to a species of Pluteus - ie on wood, with pink free crowded gills - but with one clear difference: it has a Grisette-like volva at the stem base. This feature can be fragile and sometimes easily lost leaving the ID in doubt, but the cream cap colour together with fine silky hairs should be sufficient to alert one to its identity. Previous finds |
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September 20th Tricholomopsis rutilans (Plums and Custard) On a hurried visit to Penn Street Churchyard Claire Williams spotted what she assumed was possibly a Waxcap in the grass though near Pine, and sent her photos to Penny for a second opinion. However, Penny is naming this Plums and Custard (hopefully correctly!) and guesses that it was growing on submerged Pine wood or roots. The jizz just doesn't look right for a Waxcap despite the bright colours and apparent grassy habitat, also zooming in (photo 3) the typical mottled cap colours of the species become much more obvious. Previous finds |
September 13th 2024
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September 13th Scleroderma bovista (Potato Earthball) Under Oak at Stampwell Farm Jackie Ewan found these small Earthballs, much smoother and usually with a less distinct stem compared to both S. verrucosum and S. areolatum. Jackie commented that the outer surface turned red on damaging though Penny finds this is not that useful a pointer to species as both the other two species can also react in that way. The microscopic differences – both spore ornamentation and presence of clamps - are definitive for this species, however. It certainly has a resemblance to a potato which also helps! Photo 2 shows a remarkable sprouting of fine 'hairs' which developed after the specimen had been retained in a pot for a few days! Previous finds |
September 12th 2024
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September 12th Marasmiellus vaillantii (Goblet Parachute) In Salden Wood Bob Simpson found these tiny white mushrooms on a piece of woody debris and was intrigued by the unusual and almost petal-like appearance of the cap! At home he wondered if it could be this species but sent his photos to Penny who'd also not seen it with caps like this. However the microscopic features fitted fine as did its size and general appearance apart from the extra mini-caps in the middle! Misformed caps do occur from time to time in many species, however. This is quite a common mushroom found often in clusters or loose groups on woody debris and dead vegetation. It was also found three days later on our walk at Wotton Park Estate. Do not confuse with the much more common and superficially similar Marasmius rotula (Collared Parachute) which, however, has an entirely different gill attachment. Previous finds |
September 11th 2024
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September11th Gymnopilus dilepis (Magenta Rustgill) In a large pile of well rotted woodchip at Stampwell Farm Jackie Ewan watched good numbers of this species developing over a few days and eventually realised what the species must be. This is an unusual Rustgill which first made an appearance in the UK in 1995, probably introduced on some imported woodchip, and by the time we first found it in Bucks (at Stoke Common) in 2010 there were about 30 UK records, all from the south of England. Though still uncommon, when it fruits it seems to appear in large numbers as seen here, and this was also the case at Stoke Common and at our only other site when found in Naphill Common in 2022. This is a distinctive species with an unusual magenta cap colour (not unlike that of Tricholomopsis rutilans - Plums and Custard) when it first appears though it becomes mush rustier as it matures. Usually recorded on conifer woodchip, Jackie reports that it was on the chips of a mix of different deciduous woods here. Previous finds |
September 10th 2024
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September 10th Clavulinopsis corniculata (Meadow Coral) In Lacey Green churchyard Sarah Ebdon found this coral growing in shortish grass. It is usually possible to name this one in the field owing to its branching clustered habit and small size compared to other similar yellow species which are either individual clubs or if clustered then not branching in this way. Previous finds |
September 9th 2024
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September 9th Gymnopus dryophilus (Russet Toughshank) In Austenwood Common Jim Wills came across this group in Oak litter, recognised the genus and whittled it down to either G. dryophilus or G. erythropus (Redleg Toughshank). When the caps are faded these two can look quite similar superficially but the stem features are quite different, the latter having a distinctly red stem (not at all orange) which is shiny and smooth as opposed to the more or less concolorous stem of G. dryophilus though it can become quite faded like the cap too. G. dryophilus is one of our commonest mushrooms in woodlandglades. Previous finds |
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September 9th Scleroderma verrucosum (Scaly Earthball) At Stampwell Farm Jackie Ewan reports a few things beginning to appear now. This is one of them, though both Jackie and Penny initially mistook this Earthball for S. citrinum owing to its dirty yellowish appearance. However, a few days later when it had developed a distinct stem and aged a bit (see photo 3) Jackie realised it was not that species but in fact S. verrucosum! It just goes to show how easy it is make make incorrect assumptions even over common species ....... Previous finds |
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September 9th Gymnopus ocior (Spring Toughshank) This is another early season regular fruiter at Stampwell Farm, found by Jackie. We've had a couple of collections confirmed with sequencing because it is easy to confuse with the much more common G. dryophilus (Russet Toughshank) which despite its English name is usually less conspicuously russet than G. ocior! Previous finds |
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September 9th Clitopilus prunulus (The Miller) At Stampwell Farm this species is a regular early season mushroom coming up in grassland and grassy pathsides. It has a mealy smell (of rancid flour) and decurrent gills which turn pink as they mature. Previous finds |
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September 9th Protostropharia semiglobata (Dung Roundhead) At Stampwell Farm Jackie Ewan noticed this singleton on some dung. This common grazed grassland species was previously in genus Stropharia though at least its English name remains constant to lesson the confusion when this happens. Previous finds |
September 8th 2024
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September 8th Conocybe aurea (a rare Conecap with no English name) In Gerrards Cross in a patch of recently laid turf Jesper Launder noticed good numbers of this LBJ coming up. He took a sample home to work on and keyed it out very convincingly to this species for which there appear to be extremely few UK records. For this reason we shall be getting a sample sequenced to confirm. |
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September 8th Panaeolus semiovatus (Egghead Mottlegill) Whilst biking in Bradenham Wood Claire Williams nearly went over this piece of dung but happened to notice the fungi growing out of it as she rode past! Stopping to take a closer look, she noted the slimy stem which had just faint signs of ring remnants (hardly visible here) together with the typical campanulate cap and although the gills were still somewhat pale for this dark-sored genus she correctly identified the species which is not uncommon but always on dung or remains of dung. Often after heavy rain species normally seen with a ring on the stem when young will lose it, causing confusion when it is missing. Previous finds |
September 7th 2024
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September 7th Suillellus queletii (Deceiving Bolete) In Little Chalfont Jesper launder came across about 20 fruitbodies of this impressive mushroom under deciduous trees a sure sign that the autumn season is at last on its way. This species appears to be becoming more common in our area though it may be that we are now more skilled at recognising it from the other similar lookalikes with reddish pores and blueing flesh. The tapering almost rooting stem base which shows beetroot red flesh are the pointers to distinguish it. Previous finds |
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September 7th Chlorophyllum rhacodes (Shaggy Parasol) Near Chalfont St Peter Jesper Launder spotted this Parasol just visible above the vegetation in a roadside verge. The white stem with lack of any brown snakeskin markings confirmed it as this species rather than the true Parasol - compare with the Parasol entry two days earlier. Previous finds |
September 6th 2024
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September 6th Melanoleuca verrucipes (Warty Cavalier) In some woodchip at Stampwell Farm Jackie Ewan was initially stumped by this cluster of an unusual white mushroom and emailed Penny for suggetions. As soon as she mentioned the presence of black scaly markings as in the genus Leccinum on the white stem, Penny was able to point her in the right direction. This is a common feature in Leccinum, helping to separate it from other Bolete genera, but is very unusual in any other genera and notably a good way of distinguishing this particular member of an otherwise rather nondescript genus. We have just three other county sites where it's been found, one of them earlier this year in Stoke Common - not far from Stampwell Farm as the kite flies. Previous finds |
September 5th 2024
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September 5th Pluteus cervinus (Deer Shield) On woodchip at Turville Heath Penny found this nibbled singleton and confirmed her ID turning it over to see the free gills which were, however, still white rather than pink (though they were suitably pink by the next morning). The next day she received Jackie Ewan's photos of the same species also found on woodchip at Stampwell Farm. Note the different shades of brown between the two collections - this common species is quite variable and can be surprisingly dark brown and though often on fallen branches is just as happy in deciduous woodchip where it is often much bigger than when on wood. Previous finds |
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September 5th Pluteus salicinus (Willow Shield) On a chunk of bare wood from a large fallen Lime at Turville Heath Penny spotted this singleton Pluteus, recognising the species from the grey cap with no hint of brown as in P. cervinus. Turning it over the gills were suitably free and turning pink, confirming the genus. The species is not rare though much less common that P. cervinus, also usually smaller than that species. It is just as likely to be found on deciduous woods other than Willow despite its misleading English name. Previous finds |
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September 5th Macrolepiota konradii (a Parasol with no English name) At Turville Heath Penny was not surprised to come across several examples of this species which seems to be very common here in the grassy undergrowth under both Birch and Oak. The brown snakeskin stem markings (photos 2 and 3) instantly eliminate the very similar genus Chlorophyllum, though deciding whether this was M. procera (Parasol) or even M. mastoidea (Slender Parasol) can be tricky. The cap scales (photo 1) are clearly not abundant enough for M. procera in Penny's opinion therefore pointing to M. konradii, but this species is regularly synonymised with M. mastoidea which however has a prominant central nipple (not seen here). Despite no separation between these two species appears to be confirmed with sequencing as yet, Penny is still of the opinion that there is a distinct difference in jizz (general appearance) between the two! Time will tell. Previous finds |
September 3rd 2024
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September 3rd Russula parazurea (Powdery Brittlegill) In Austenwood Common under Oak Jim Wills found this singleton green Brittlegill and correctly identified it noting the various clues. It is one of several green species (though can sometimes be much browner, like the colour of the cap centre seen here) and the salmon reaction when rubbed with a crystal of iron salts, also the cream gills, quickly eliminated both R. heterophylla and R. cyanoxantha. Other possible contenders were R. grisea and R. ionochlora, but its occurrence under Oak (its preferred host) together with blue-green rather than violet-pink flesh revealed by peeling the cuticle pointed to R. parazurea. Furthermore, the dull pruinose cap surface (as if with a bloom like a grape) confirmed it. Previous finds |
September 2nd 2024
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September 2nd Caloboletus cf. radicans (Rooting Bolete) In Salden Wood under Oak Bob Simpson found three specimens of this unusual and substantial species, though we are in doubt as to whether it is C. radicans because we now know there is another very similar but much rarer species, C. kluzakii (no English name) which is tricky to tell apart without recourse to DNA sequencing. It was first recorded in the UK in 2020 and we already have one confirmed Bucks collection; it is possible that this might be the second as it does appear to have a slight red flush at the stem base which is apparently one of the differences. For now we'll list it as C. radicans and once sequenced we'll up date this entry. Previous finds |
August 31st 2024
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August 31st Coprinopsis lagopus (Haresfoot Inkcap) At Stampwell Farm Jackie Ewan noticed this patch of nice fresh Inkcaps coming up in some woodchip. The English name refers to the species when at this attractive immature furry stage though it only takes a day or so before the fruitbodies look very different (as seen in the two lower fruitbodies with stems which have rather collapsed). Previous finds |
August 27th 2024
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August 27th Claviceps purpurea (Ergot) At Dancersend Neil Fletcher found this unusual ascomycete which grows on the heads of grasses including Rye, forming a dark hard sclerotia (seen here). This is a dangerously toxic species and in past centuries was responsible for many deaths but nowadays all grain seed is treated thus removing the threat to both humans and livestock. It has also been used medicinally but owing to the dangerous side effects this practice has been discontinued. We have about 16 county records with several from this site. Previous finds |
August 26th 2024
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August 26th Phallus impudicus (Stinkhorn) In Bottom Wood (near Piddington) John Catterson commented that he could smell a stinkhorn nearby, and Lesley then looked around to locate it! John's photo clearly shows the species at its smelliest with lots of the olive green gleba visible and attracting the hungry flies! The 'egg' from which it has emerged is also nicely visible here. Previous finds |
August 20th 2024
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August 20th Meripilus giganteus (Giant Polypore) In Tinkers Wood John Catterson noticed this charismatic species just beginning to spread at the base of an unidentified rotten trunk (likeliest to be Beech). When at full size there's no mistaking this bracket but when young like this it could possibly be confused with Grifola frondosa (Hen of the Woods) which as chance would have it was found yesterday (see entry below) giving an opportunity to compare the two. If in doubt, break a piece off and keep an eye on it for half an hour; if the Giant it will gradually blacken where bruised, if the Hen it won't! Photo 2 is of another immature collection found by Greg Douglas on Beech in Captain's Wood Chesham a couple of weeks later. Previous finds |
August 19th 2024
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August 19th Grifola frondosa (Hen of the Woods) In Stoke Poges Memorial Gardens Gill Ferguson spotted this stunning fungus at the bottom of a trunk (but was so busy admiring it that she didn't notice the host tree!). It is a distinctive tiered bracket fungus, not that common and usually at the base of either Oak or Beech. New to the site, we have quite a few records though Penny's not seen it since the earlier Finds entry in 2020. See comments on that entry for a bit more information. Previous finds |
August 17th 2024
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August 17th Pleurotus ostreatus (Oyster Mushroom ) In Tinkers Wood John Catterson found this nice cluster on an Oak log. Sure signs that thing fungal re at last starting to move again! Previous finds |
August 15th 2024
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August 15th Fistulina hepatica (Beefsteak Fungus) In Pullingshill Wood Stephen Plummer found this attractive bracket on fallen Oak and sent his photos (1-3) to Penny for confirmation as this was young material and not yet showing the exterior blood red signs which give the species away. Photo 4 was sent in by Gill Ferguson from Burnham Beeches two days later with no doubt about the typical bloody signs here! This is about the time to be looking out for this charismatic bracket which is soft in texture and often to be found on standing or fallen Oak. Previous finds |
August 14th 2024
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August 14th Gymnopus fusipes (Spindle Toughshank) In woodland near Chalfont St. Peter Jim Wills noticed this clustered species at the base of an Oak trunk. Though a common species and often an early fruiter, nothing has been very common so far this summer so finding anything worthy of a photo has been a challenge. Photo 2 shows its typical tapering stem base, often conjoined to its neighbour in this species and a useful clue, together with its flexible rubbery general texture, to its identity if in any doubt. Previous finds |
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August 14th Amanita rubescens (Blusher) In Naphill Common John Catterson was pleased to find this distinctive species in good condition and showing all its characters nicely. This is often an early fruiter but when there is little fungi about for hungry mammals to nibble at it is unusual to find either an Amanita or even a Brittlegill with so little damage. Note the pink blushing visible on the stem, also the ring, the swollen base and the veil remnants on the cap - all sure signs of this common species Previous finds |
August 12th 2024
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August 12th Scleroderma citrinum (Common Earthball) On Goldhill Common under Oak and Birch Jim Wills found this species fruiting in good numbers. The tough scaly surface together with its thick skin and almost black interior when sliced open (when an unpleasant rubbery smell is apparent) help to separate it from other species of Earthball. Previous finds |
August 9th 2024
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August 9th Hemileccinum impolitum (Iodine Bolete) In a roadside verge under Oak in Gerrards Cross Jesper Launder found this smart pair of boletes despite the area being very dry. On picking one the strong smell of iodoform was immediately apparent (Jesper described them as reeking!) leaving him in no doubt as to the species, this confirmed with one press of the pores which then failed to show any sign of blueing. This is a large chunky solid species with a preference for sandy calcareous soils under Oak and should present no problems to identify if the smell and lack of blueing on the pores are noticed. Previous finds |
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August 9th Battarrea phalloides (Sandy Stiltball) In Fulmer Jesper Launder was both astonished and delighted to spot a group of these rare and strange looking fungi in a dry grassy roadside bank near some Leylandii. Related to the gasteroid (stomach) fungi, the species is on the Red Data List and as such protected by law (thus should not be picked). Jesper reports that there were three fresh stalks about 10 cm tall amongst some 6 or 7 much older dilapidated specimens - probably left from last year. The species is woody and tough, also somewhat unpredictable where it fruits, but does seem to like banks with sandy soil near conifer and has now been found several times in the county, always in urban areas. This is the second find of the year and we now have four similar sites for it in Bucks, so rather like the equally strange and also gasteroid species Clathrus ruber it does seem to be on the increase. Climate change? Previous finds |
July 30th 2024
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July 30th Suillellus luridus (Lurid Bolete) In a roadside verge in Chalfont St. Peter Jim Wills came across a group of ten boletes fruiting in soil under Lime, his photo 1 is of a conjoined pair. The colour of the pores and bluing flesh when exposed to air quickly limited the possibilities so he took one home to work out which of the three likeliest candidates it was. The impressive and prominent network (see photo 2) covering the entire stem eliminated Neoboletus luridiformis (Scarletina Bolete) - by far the commonest of our red-pored boletes, and also pointed to S. luridiformis rather than S. queletii (Deceiving Bolete) - another contender which also has a network but it is less well defined and tends to be only in the lower stem. Jim placed a drop of Melzer's reagent on the lower stem flesh (see photo 3) which turned deep blue further confirming it was one of these two species (N. luridiformis flesh turns dirty brown ie a negative reaction). Both species are positive with Melzers and have some beetroot red colour in the lower stem flesh but this is much more marked in B. queletii which furthermore has an abruptly tapering and rooting stem base - not seen here. B. queletii is the rarer of the two species but was much in evidence last summer in our area. So both are well worth looking out for now. Incidentally, photo 4 is a good example of how to separate the genus Xerocomellus from other bolete genera: when the tubes (under the cap flesh) are pulled apart the individual tubes remain intact in all boletes except Xerocomellus where they rupture. Previous finds |
July 19th 2024
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July 19th Taphrina alni (Alder Tongue) On the dead (female) cones of an Italian Alder in Salden Wood Bob Simpson had noticed the 'tongues' of this unusual species emerging last year (and which are apparently still there). So he'd been keeping an eye out for their reappearance this year and noticed them a few days ago. The fungus is a pathogen which induces these long lasting galls on Alder, and what we see is apparently deformed plant material with the asci of the fungus contained within. Green at first, the tongues turn red as here (hence its English name) then yellowish and eventually black and gnarled. By no means rare, the species is apparently becoming much more common in the UK though this is a new record for the county. |
July 13th 2024
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July 13th Agrocybe rivulosa (Wrinkled Fieldcap) On a path covered in old woodchips in Austenwood, Chalfont St. Peter, Jim Wills spotted several clumps of mushrooms obviously triggered into action after the recent rains. Described as an alien species which arrived here 20 years ago, probably on imported woodchip, it has spread rapidly and is now relatively common, favouring well rotted woodchip piles. Typical of the genus it has a pale cap not unlike Agaricus, fruits mainly in summer, has deep brown spores and a marked ring on the stem which hangs down (pendant - see photo 3). The cap soon develops deep wrinkles or fissures (see photo 2). Similar is Cyclocybe cylindracea - previously in Agrocybe and also found on woodchip. They can be separated by smell - farinaceous in today's species but aromatic in C. cylindracea, also with microscopy - the spores of today's species having a notably larger germ pore. Previous finds |
July 5th 2024
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July 5th Polyporus tuberaster (Tuberous Polypore) In Bernwood Forest Chris Grimbly noticed this quite distinctive Polypore with cap similar to a smaller version of P. squamosum (Dryad's Saddle) with very widely spaced pores underneath which appear slightly decurrent. Not surprisingly the cap is somewhat nibbled – woodland fungi favoured my small mammals are in short supply at the moment so are very likely to be gratefully munched at any opportunity! Though by no means rare this appears to be a new entry for Finds. |
July 1st 2024
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July 1st Melanogaster ambiguus (Stinking Slime Truffle) In Beaconsfield Jesper Launder went searching for truffle 'dig holes' in a spot under Lime and Oak where he'd had success a few weeks back. Finding one with some truffly scraps he investigated more closely and was instantly hit by the most repellent vile smell he described as of landfill gases! The remains of the specimen were not in the best condition (obviously fully mature!) and were black and sticky within. He knew at this moment it had to be M. ambiguus but bothered to check the spores later at home to confirm. We have just two previous county records from 2007 found not far way in H. Wycombe and Jesper says he's only found it previously in a Manchester park. |