Strange fungi? for ID, please

Jennie · #1 (**permalink**) 13-04-2009, 08:53 PM

Found these strange objects in an old hedgerow today. I would imagine the four lower 'legs' were once joined together in a ball shape. The top is spongey and releases spores when the tip is touched. What I cannot imagine is what it looked like when it was growing!!

CapAndBracket · #2 (**permalink**) 13-04-2009, 08:56 PM

A geastrum.sp

Cheers J.P.

KeenTeen17 · #3 (**permalink**) 13-04-2009, 08:58 PM

not sure on the specific species of Geastrum but great find

flaxton · #4 (**permalink**) 13-04-2009, 10:40 PM

Jennie

I think this is almost certainly Geastrum fornicatum and if so a Red Data List specimen - a great find.

Mal

NickCantle · #5 (**permalink**) 13-04-2009, 10:43 PM

I did wonder if it were that Mal, but I thought I'd wait for someone with the better knowledge on the genus. I have them in my neck of the woods

Great find indeed

flaxton · #6 (**permalink**) 13-04-2009, 10:50 PM

Nick
We are still waiting for someone with more knowledge of the genus

Although I have found three species of Geastrum this one still eludes me along with Sarc....... Morch........ etc etc
My suggestion is courtesy of R Phillips Esq
Mal

Chris Yeates · #7 (**permalink**) 14-04-2009, 12:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by flaxton

My suggestion is courtesy of R Phillips Esq
Mal

courtesy of the Kew book on "British Puffballs, Earthstars etc.) you are spot on with fornicatum Mal

cheers

Chris

Jennie · #8 (**permalink**) 14-04-2009, 09:34 PM

Wow, thanks guys! It was interesting to read up on them and to learn that they are quite a rare and vulnerable species.
I will take them back to where I found them ASAP, given that at least one still has spores inside.

Should I be notifying anyone of their location?