Biodiversity

Oyster mushroom A gilled mushroom found on trees. They capture free – living soil nematodes using a section of fungal mycelia modified into a loop When a nematode puts its anterior end into a loop, the loop tightens via a sudden influx of stored water. The nematode is first digested using secreted enzymes and then its nutrients absorbed by the fungus. This supplements the diet of the fungus, as wood is low in nitrogen.

TurkeytailA pore-bearing mushroom found on trees.

Jelly FungusThis species can be used as a thickener in soups

Grape FernGrape ferns are named for the round, clustered spore cases, which have some resemblance to a bunch of grapes.

Christmas FernThe leaves of this species resemble stockings in profile.