Special properties of Candlesnuff fungi explained
Life on Earth would not exist without fungi.
Without the recycling activities of fungi, the world’s ecosystems would soon run out of nutrients. Plants would not be able to grow and our food would become depleted.
Led by HCC’s Shona Jenkins, this latest guided event in the Chalk Pits Nature Reserve helped the fascinated group of villagers identify a wide range of species of fungi.
As in previous years, an intriguing variety of fungi were identified - from large bracket types to miniature growths on decaying wood.
And, yet again, some relatively rare species were found - highlighting the importance of this small Nature Reserve and of the countryside around Buriton.
Shona was also able to explain the special properties of some of our local fungi, including the Candlesnuff species (Xylaria hypoxylon) in the photograph. It gets its name because it looks like a snuffed-out candle wick: with a black base, grey mid-section and white tip. These fungi are small but they have medicinal properties: both anti-viral and active against tumours. Shona also explained that although it’s not poisonous, it’s too small and tough to eat.
