Maybe not a fungus, but..

[Rambling Rob]

..I'm not sure where else to post this query. So far as I can work out this might be a myxomycete, perhaps Enteridium lycoperdon..



Found on a dead/ fallen branch in woodland nr, Sandown, IoW yesterday, and seemingly engulfing dead leaves, moss etc. It had a silky sheen and the perimeter in contact with the branch looked like wefts of (white) candy floss. About 10cm across.

I don't know much about myxomycetes yet, but is that what this is?

Thanks for looking,
Rob

[cybershot]

I'm inclined to say you've nailed it first time Rob.

David

[Rambling Rob]

Thanks David, I think there may've been a more mature stage of the same thing further along the branch and wish I'd photographed it now, Rob

[cybershot]

I'll wager it looked similar to the specimen I spotted this morning



before the crust eventually bursts open to reveal a cushion of brown powdery spore mass.