Spearywell
Sat 7 Sep 2024
Amanita phalloides
Photo © Dave Shute
Field event ID HF2412
Report: Although overcast with light showers, it was a mild day and the wood largely sheltered us from the rain.
With regard to the fungi, there was a more autumnal feel, with plenty of ‘cap and stem’ species starting to appear. Some early finds were a probable Pluteus plautus (Satin Shield), Hydnum repandum (Wood Hedgehog) and the resupinate, Laxietextum bicolor. Then, a chunky yellow webcap with purplish gills and flush to the stipe, was found. Subsequent microscopy suggested Cortinarius delibutus (Yellow Webcap).
As we descended the Beech-covered slope we found Polyporus durus (Bay Polypore), Megacollybia platyphylla (Whitelaced Shank) and the cup fungus, Peziza micropus. Close to the stream at the foot of the hill, some decaying pinewood was host to Tricholomopsis rutilans (Plums and Custard) and in a grassy patch at the edge of the wood we discovered Lacrymaria lacrymabunda (Weeping Widow).
We continued up the opposite slope and lunched on some cut logs. Nearby, a mass fruiting of Cantharellus tubaeformis (Winter Chanterelle) was seen. This led us to explore further, and we found a photogenic group of Mycenas (Bonnets) growing from a fallen Sweet-chestnut husk. Although unidentified at the time, a sample taken was later certified by DNA sequencing as only the second British record of Mycena dasypus! On a Beech leaf-stalk in the vicinity, we recorded the tiny, yellow Hymenoscyphus caudatus.
Taking a circuitous route back towards the car park, we came across some emergent Amanita phalloides (Deathcap) and Russula fellea (Geranium Brittlegill).