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Rare Fungi Found on Isle of Man Expedition
27 Oct
Summary
- An expedition on Calf of Man discovered a rare date waxcap fungus.
- The survey doubled the known waxcap species on the Calf of Man.
- Isle of Man boasts four European-status sites for fungi, more than the Netherlands.
A recent expedition to the Calf of Man, an island off the Isle of Man, has revealed a wealth of fungal life, contributing to an ongoing project to map Manx fungi. During a two-day survey, researchers identified 18 waxcap species, effectively doubling the island's known varieties and discovering a rare date waxcap near a burrow entrance. This surge in findings underscores the Isle of Man's rich fungal biodiversity.
The island is recognized for its significant fungal sites, with four locations holding top European status, surpassing the total for the entire Netherlands. The Isle of Man Fungus Group, with guidance from mycologists, has identified over 400 species, including two that are globally listed as at risk of extinction. This data is crucial for creating a comprehensive fungal map for conservation purposes at the government level.
