Clitocybe

Natures Silent Art Fungus Born on a Log Today's topic is a wonderful creation of nature - a fungus that was born on a log. You may not pay attention to it at first, but this small creature nature is very important our environment and biodiversity.

Many us think fungi as mushrooms used in cooking. But there are thousands of types fungi in nature, whose functions, structures and characteristics are completely different. The one seen in this picture is probably a bracket fungus. Its characteristic is that it usually grows on the trunks or branches of dead or dying trees and gradually breaks down the wood.

Where can it be found?

This type of fungus is usually found in damp, shady places. The picture mentions that it was taken in a place in Shah Alam which is very ideal for the growth fungi in terms weather. This region often rains has high humidity, which creates favorable environment for fungi grow.

Fungus structure

The picture shows the fungus shaped like an oyster or fan. It often grows in layers on trees. Its color can usually be white, gray, or light brown, as seen here. The middle part is slightly raised and dark in color, while the sides gradually fade to a lighter color. This structure protects the fungus from rainwater and helps it easily stick to the tree trunk.

How does grow?

Fungi are not green plants they cannot photosynthesize. Instead, they break down organic matter in the tree trunk to create nutrients for themselves. This process is called decomposition. Fungi break down dead matter in their natural environment, making soil fertile, which makes it easier other plants grow.

Role in the environment

Fungi act as silent cleaners in our environment. When plants die or break down, they decompose and mix them back into soil. This way soil becomes nutritious and helps new plants grow. In addition, some fungi are used to make medicine penicillin.

Are they harmful to us?

Not all fungi are beneficial humans. Some fungi break down wood so quickly that they can damage wooden furniture or structures in homes. Some fungi are poisonous, which can make people sick if eaten. However fungus in this picture does not seem poisonous, but you should definitely seek expert advice before eating it.

Conclusion

Although fungus in this picture is small and silent, its role in nature is very big. It is not just a fungus born dead wood, but a sign nature's rejuvenation. If we pay attention to these small elements of nature, we will understand how the world is working wonderfully for us - silently, selflessly.

Photography:
Location| Malaysia 🇲🇾🇲🇾🇲🇾
Short by |@aburihan
Link to original community|
https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/285011765

Latitude Longitude Map|
https://www.openstreetmap.org/?mlat=3.125902&mlon=101.504848#map=12/3.1259/101.5048