Fungi

Found some fungi and don't know what it is? Start here and then research here!

Use the drop down menu in the 'list group', click the list group, find and click on a New Zealand reference and then click on image.

This database takes a bit of getting used to but the initial fungi descriptions in the 'list group' menu like 'small mushrooms on soil' are general. Then it is a matter of clicking through the group lists and then the images to identify the fungi. It is time consuming but you have to remember that there are many more different kinds of fungi in New Zealand than there are kinds of plants.

Fungi are everywhere. They are one of the most numerous groups of organisms in New Zealand with an expected 22,000 species. So far, approximately 7,500 species - only about a third - have been recorded in New Zealand.

As well as being one of the most numerous groups of organisms, the best time of the year to find fungi is now - in autumn.

Other websites:

NZFUNGI - New Zealand Fungi (and Bacteria) This Landcare database currently represents one of the most extensive electronic compilations on the national fungal biota of any country.

Forest fungi of New Zealand This Hidden Forest site's purpose is to show you the beauty and diversity in form and size of New Zealand's fungi.

Fungi of the Kaimai Ranges in the Bay of Plenty.

for stunning photos of fungi check out the Auckland Fungus Group.

The Fungal Foray card game is a fun way to identify fungi.

Information about the vegetable caterpillar from DOC. It's not a caterpillar at all but a parasitic fungus which spreads through the caterpillar’s body dissolving its internal organs and turning it into food for itself until it has filled up the caterpillar’s body.

Backyard Nature is an American site with a section on backyard fungi.

Books:

Edible and Poisonous Mushrooms of the World by Ian R. Hall, Steven L. Stephenson, Peter K. Buchanan, Wang Yun, Anthony L.J. Cole.

A Photographic Guide to Mushrooms and Other Fungi of New Zealand by Geoff Ridley.