Doing a Good Job

Many fungi are saprophytic, meaning that they live in or on organic matter.  Whilst using this material to obtain food they actually help to break it down and release nutrients back into the cycle of nature, for use by plants.  Much research is being carried out about the relationship between fungi and plants. 

Usually by now most of the fungi have fruited and died but there is still much to be seen.

Although this one was growing in the grass it was next to the ancient hedge line so could be influenced by the tree roots or even dead wood underground.

There are still waxcaps growing in Plover's Pool.

This fungus was growing on the wood in the dead hedge, 

along with this one.

In one of the conifer blocks yet another new species has been recorded, Spruce Conecap.  It grows on Spruce pine cones.  Thanks to Chris for research to confirm the ID of this fungus.