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Rare Blue Fungus Found in UK Forest
26 Mar
Summary
- A fungus with a blue base, previously unknown in the UK, was discovered.
- The find was made by an amateur enthusiast in West Sussex's Kingley Vale.
- DNA sequencing confirmed the fungus as a new UK species, first found in Spain.
A unique fungus, the blue-based earthtongue (microglossum cyanobasis), has been identified in the UK for the first time. The discovery occurred last December at Kingley Vale National Nature Reserve in West Sussex, a location known for its ancient yew trees. Liz Frost, an amateur mycologist, initially found six specimens and later discovered twelve more. This blue-green colored fungus, measuring 45-55mm, has a scientific name derived from its distinctive "blue base."
DNA sequencing confirmed the fungus as a 99% match to specimens first found in Spain in 2009. Frost noted the fungus is small and well-camouflaged, which may explain its previous unnoticed presence. The reserve manager highlighted that this fungus signals undisturbed, nutrient-poor grasslands and ancient woodland soils, environments increasingly threatened by land-use changes.
