"On Sunday 13th October we had a visit from Kent Field Club to identify fungi at Woodsell."

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Kent Field Club explores fungal diversity

On Sunday 13th October we had a visit from Kent Field Club to identify fungi at Woodsell. Led by two experts in mycology (names to follow) and Richard Moyse (Kent Field Club), the outing aimed to identify as many species as possible in Little and Great Spelty Woods.

The group gathered on Sunday morning at the farmhouse and began with looking at a selection of fungi specimens from a recent visit to a different chalk soil site.

The main physical characteristics to pay attention to are:

• Cap Shape: Convex, flat, or conical
• Color: Note variations and any colour changes
• Gills or Pores: Examine the underside of the cap
• Stipe (Stem): Look at the size, shape, and presence of a ring or bulb at the base
• Texture: Smooth, scaly, or slimy
• Odour: Some fungi have distinctive smells

Secondary is the habitat and environment. What are the fungi growing on – soil, wood, or other substrates? Also, what is the surrounding flora – identify nearby plants and trees, as some fungi are associated with specific species. The time of year is also a factor – many fungi have specific seasons when they are more likely to be found.

The group then set off down the public bridleway and headed into Little Spelty. Here we found a lot of chalk-based species including Hellrandiger Schneckling (Hydrophorus lindtneri) and Viscid Brittlegill (Russula viscida), two quite rare species. It was interesting how the experts used nearby trees to help identify down to species level, as fungi form symbiotic relationships with a particular tree species. We also learnt the role of fungi in nutrient cycling, breaking down organic matter and woodland health.

One of the interesting facts we discovered was that the Green elf cup which infects ‘gren oak’ was highly prized in the 18th and 19th centuries. Specialist workworkers would use it to create intricate inlays for decorative wooden boxes. This specialised mozaic patterning was described as ‘Tonbridge Ware’ of Kent.

The Common Inkcap (Coprinopsis atramentaria) is poisonous and as it decomposes, its cap melts into a sticky black substance. This black mess used to be used as ink after boiling with a little water and cloves, or urine.

After lunch the group headed to Greater Spelty. Here follows a selection of photos taken from the day:

 

 

Photos taken by Simon Berthal and Nye Renny

Article by Helen Renny, Project Co-ordinator