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Rare Candelabra Coral Fungus Discovered in New Forest National Park
12 Nov
Summary
- Candelabra Coral, a rare fungus, found in New Forest National Park
- Distinctive crown-tipped creamy white branches of the fungus
- Sudden appearance of the fungus is "remarkable" according to experts
In a remarkable discovery, a rare fungus known as Candelabra Coral has been found growing in the New Forest National Park. According to the New Forest National Park Authority (NFNPA), the fungus, with its striking crown-tipped creamy white branches, has been spotted at six sites within the park in recent weeks.
Professor Russell Wynn, director of Wild New Forest, who made one of the discoveries, described the "sudden arrival" of the Candelabra Coral as remarkable. The reason for its appearance is unclear, but given the fungus' distinctive and identifiable features, experts believe it is unlikely to have been overlooked in the past.
The Candelabra Coral, which can grow up to 10cm high, thrives on decaying deadwood in moist woodland environments. Its rediscovery in the New Forest is part of a larger effort by the NFNPA and its partners to help halt species decline and restore habitats in the area, covering a space the size of 350 football pitches.
