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Home > Blogs > Birds and Butterflies > Archives > 2012 > February > 07 > Entry
Fungus: Dead Man’s Fingers
While walking at Hills and Dales, I came across a fungus known as Dead Man’s Fingers around the base of a tree. Dead Man’s Fingers (Xylaria polymorpha), is a common fungus to find in woodland habitats. This particular species of fungus is what we call a decomposer. This means they eat what is beneath them. In this case, the fungus appears to be munching on the tree. Digestive juices are secreted from the fungus to facilitate the breakdown of the food source. Now that we know what they eat, can we eat them? No! They are listed as unpalatable in my guide book.
Historically, fungi (plural form of fungus) have been grouped with plants based on their observed life histories. Now we know that fungi are more related to animals than plants. Today, they are listed in their own Kingdom since they do not quite have enough characteristics to be plants or animals.
Not all fungi are decomposers. Many are single-celled and parasitic on animals and plants. Some fungi even form relationships with photosynthetic algae which will provide food for the fungus in exchange for a place to live. These are known as lichens and they are found nearly everywhere in the county.
The best time to see fungus is when it is warm and moist. Hills and Dales MetroPark has a wide variety of fungi to view in the spring and summer. Not only are fungi really interesting organisms, but they can look quite fabulous!
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By Fungus among us
February 7, 2012 1:58 PM | Link to this
Don’t forget Pleurotus ostreatus. Otherwise known as Hickory Jacks. Much better than morels.
By Katy
February 7, 2012 4:16 PM | Link to this
I wasn’t familiar with the common name you mentioned soI looked up the scientific name and found Oyster Mushrooms also used as a common name. I know I have bought them in the store and used them in Thai cooking (If they are the same ones). They are pretty tasty. Thank you for sharing! Especially about something as awesome as fungi!