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In Search of Giant Fungus

Chris Sperring explores Dommett Wood in Somerset on the hunt for a giant bracket fungus that can grow up to one metre across.

Chris Sperring and Michael Jordan of the Association of British Fungus Groups go in search of giant bracket fungus in Dommett Wood in Somerset.

Bracket fungus grow on a variety of native trees. The vegetative part of the fungus, known as mycelium, grows under the bark of fallen wood or living trees, and will eventually break down and rot the host tree. However, the part that can most easily be seen is the fruiting body of bracket fungus. These fruiting bodies, growing on tree trunks and fallen logs, allow the fungus to reproduce and exist to produce and liberate millions of microscopic spores.

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22 minutes

Last on

Sun 22 Feb 2015 06:35

Chris Sperring with Michael Jordan in Somerset's Dommett Wood

Chris Sperring with Michael Jordan in Somerset's Dommett Wood

Ganoderma bracket fungus

Ganoderma bracket fungus
Pictures: Chris Sperring

Broadcast

  • Sun 22 Feb 2015 06:35

Natural Histories

Natural Histories

Nature that has had a profound impact on human culture and society across history.