Fungi, Lichen & Slime Molds 1

Taken on 17th September 2004, but can't remember where I photographed it..

Found this small log beautifully covered in fungus down in Fish Creek Park on 15th September 2007.

Apparently, this mushroom is different because it widens towards the base. Not a very inspiring photo, but I liked the pattern of the gills.

Came across this brighty coloured fungus on a hike at Jumpingpound Loop, Kananaskis, last year. I always think that it looks as if someone has gone round with a paintbrush and palette!

I was thrilled to bits this morning when a friend pointed out these teeny Bird's Nest Fungi growing in a wooded area. I've only ever seen them twice before. They are so tiny, I don't know how anyone notices them! This very tiny fungus looks like bird's nests complete with eggs. The eggs are small capsules, known as peridioles, which contain the spores. Quite fascinating.

Black Knot is a fungus that attacks only Cherry trees. This one is growing on a Choke Cherry branch in Fish Creek Park. "The characteristic feature of black knot is the presence of thick, black, irregular swellings on twigs and branches. The galls are often noticed in the winter when leaves are not present. The disease is difficult to notice during the early stages of infection. Initially, the disease appears as small light brown swellings on current or previous seasons growth. The following year, the swellings appear olive green with a velvety texture. By the end of the season, knots darken and harden. Numerous knots may be present on one tree. Often the branch beyond the knot will either fail to leaf out or wilts suddenly. Black knot is caused by the fungus Apiosporina morbosa, which infects trees in the spring, about the time of bud emergence." From www.umanitoba.ca .

Thanks again, David, for finding something interesting for me to see and photograph! He picked up this piece of soil covered in tiny, orange Lichen. Quite attractive.

On the May Species Count this morning for birds, plants and other wildlife, two of us spent a while trying to get a sharp photo of this tiny orange fungus, Red Tree Brain (Peniophora rufa), growing on a tree trunk. This photo is enlarged. Quite bright and attractive (in its own way, LOL). Thanks, D, for the ID! Much appreciated! I know you'll have a much better shot of this : ). Looking forward to seeing it.