Dead man's finger fungus
Fungi within this genus are found across Australia.
Xylaria is a cosmopolitan genus of saprobic, wood-decaying fungi. Characterized by tough, woody, club-shaped or branched fruiting bodies.
Dead man's fingers is the most widespread vernacular name for the genus, particularly for species like Xylaria polymorpha, due to their dark, finger-like appearance protruding from the soil or wood.
They play a vital role in forest ecosystems by decomposing complex wood compounds like lignin.
I am not sure which species of Xylaria this is. Seen on a decaying log within forest.
It was a mere 5 mm in height.
© All rights reserved.
Dead man's finger fungus
Fungi within this genus are found across Australia.
Xylaria is a cosmopolitan genus of saprobic, wood-decaying fungi. Characterized by tough, woody, club-shaped or branched fruiting bodies.
Dead man's fingers is the most widespread vernacular name for the genus, particularly for species like Xylaria polymorpha, due to their dark, finger-like appearance protruding from the soil or wood.
They play a vital role in forest ecosystems by decomposing complex wood compounds like lignin.
I am not sure which species of Xylaria this is. Seen on a decaying log within forest.
It was a mere 5 mm in height.
© All rights reserved.