There is a fungus among us! The fungus pictured is a false turkey tail fungus (stereum ostrea), not to be confused with turkey tail fungus, which has a different type of underside. False turkey tail is a bracket fungus, which means that it forms a shelf or bracket-like structure that attaches to dying or dead trees. These fungi vary in color and size, but can live for several years. While the coloration may vary they are typically in the brown color range although with age the fungus accumulates algae on it giving it a green hue. The algae have determined that it is easier to perform photosynthesis up off of the forest floor. The fungus provides a suitable platform for this and gives the algae an improved chance for survival. The part of the fungus that you see resembling a turkey tail is referred to as the ‘flower.’ Most of the fungus is actually growing inside of the tree. The systems of cells within the log digest the wood, thus causing decay. When it is time for the fungus to reproduce it develops the ‘turkey tail’ on the outside of the log, which goes on to produce spores. Once the spores are released they can continue the life cycle of the fungus if they get transported to another log. The false turkey tail is very useful in breaking down rotting logs, which can then be turned back into nutrients for other organisms to use. This fungus is one of nature’s finest recyclers! [cj]
Posted on: Mon, 08 Sep 2014 21:02:02 +0000
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