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fungi

Common Stinkhorn (Phallus impudicus)

Common Stinkhorn

The common stinkhorn is fungus that you’ll almost certainly smell before you see. Its common name is derived from the rather obnoxious odor emitted by the phallic-shaped fruiting body. Unlike most other fungi, which rely on wind for spore dispersal, the stinkhorn’s spores hitch a ride with insects — specifically….

If you go down to the woods today

aniseed cap

It’s mushroom season — and foraging for fungi can be a great (not to mention tasty) way to while away an autumn morning — but as expert forager Andrew Malcolm explains, it’s not a pursuit that’s restricted to the autumn. (NB. NEVER eat a fungus that you cannot positively identify 100% as….

Fly Agaric (Amanita muscaria)

The fly agaric is the classic toadstool of children’s fairytales, unmistakable with it’s large red cap covered with white flecks. It is widespread and common, occurs throughout Europe and North America, and was introduced to Australia, New Zealand and South Africa with pine trees imported from Europe. Fly agaric appears….