Thursday, August 29, 2013

Mysterious Fungi

Fungi
The study of fungi is known as Mycology. Genetic studies have shown that fungi are more closely related to animals than to plants.
 Fungi have been used for the production of antibiotics since the early 1940's and recently, various enzymes produced by fungi are used industrially and in detergents. Fungi are also used as biological pesticides to control weeds, plant diseases and insect pests. Many species produce bioactive compounds called mycotoxins, that are toxic to animals including humans.

Africa  The Veiled Lady

Arizona  The Bleeding Tooth 

 Earthstar Puffball

Bearded Tooth Mushroom
 Used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicines, and have been found to have anti-oxidant properties and can reduce glucose levels in the blood.

 Violet Coral 

The "Jelly Ear," is very appropriate common names for this fungi. Looking at the photos you can see why people think it looks like the missing part of a Van Gogh self portrait.

 Hairy Cup Fungus

Our Local Fungi from South East Queensland 

Stinkhorn at Maleny South East Queensland

Does anyone know what fungus group this comes under!

Hypholoma 
dull orange/yellow or fawn coloured often growing on stumps in clusters.






Shelf Fungus