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New Zealand's Secret Fungi: A Visual Feast
2 Jul
Summary
- Photographer documents vibrant fungi and slime moulds in New Zealand.
- Book features 'micro marvels' like ruby bonnet and carnival candy slime mould.
- Fungal life can be found in unexpected places, not just forests.
Photographer Jay Lichter has captured the otherworldly beauty of New Zealand's fungi and slime moulds in his new book, 'The Secret Life of Fungi.' The images highlight the intricate details and vibrant colors of these often-unseen organisms.
The book features striking examples such as the ruby bonnet fungus, named for the sticky droplets on its stalk, and the diminutive carnival candy slime mould, which stands only 4 to 6 millimeters tall.
Lichter also documents rarer finds like the Mycena lividorubra fungus, discovered under a log in the Waitākere Ranges. Even a Mycena mushroom targeted by mould, resembling a "bridal veil," offers a dramatic visual.
Through his work, Lichter aims to inspire appreciation for fungal diversity, noting that these fascinating organisms can be found in forests, moss, rotten wood, and even surprising urban locations like car parks.
