fungi
back
The main body of a fungus, called the "mycelium" can live for several hundred years and grow new fungus strands as old ones break or die back.
The reproductive structures of the fungi, which include mushrooms and puffballs, are especially easy to find in the fall after a heavy rain. They can be all shapes, sizes, and colors, and each one contains literally billions of tiny spores *. When the mushrooms mature, they release these dust-like spores, which are transported by the wind and animals. One or two spores of the billions released might land in a suitable place and begin to grow.
Most fungi are not parasites, and very few types can harm trees. Most are actually beneficial. There are exceptions, however, and some fungi, such as bracket fungi, can be found growing in living trees. Instead of growing strands through the soil, they grow under the bark of the tree, taking nutrients from the host. When these fungi produce mushrooms, they grow out of the tree trunk. Spores from these mushroom spread to other trees and find their way inside through woodpecker holes and other damaged areas. Another example of harmful fungi is the group of closely related species called "honey mushrooms", which can damage living trees. This fungus causes live bark and tree roots to rot, and the honey mushrooms are therefore also known as "root rot fungus".
fungi
Bracket fungus. Photo by Maya Walters.

back
fungi -- page 4 of 4
[1] [2] [3] [4]

related topics
[seeds] [woodpeckers] [roots & leaves]

view the condensed version of the fungi article for faster printing/reading

return to the forest life article