Fungi

The burning question about fungi: what happens to them in extreme heat?

Scientists in Italy are testing the impact of fire and drought to learn how the changing climate affects underground fungal networks

Jonathan Moens

09, Jan, 2023 @7:45 AM

How mushrooms could mean economic independence for Benin’s women

Some rural women could find a way through the challenges brought by climate crisis, inequality and conflict by cultivating fungi in the former Marxist state

Joshua Surtees in Toui-Kilibo

03, Jan, 2023 @6:30 AM

The winter world may seem gloomy – but look closely, and you’ll see nature casting a spell | Lucy Jones

For less than a tenner, do as I do: buy a hand lens, head outside and discover fungi and moulds lighting up the darkness, says author Lucy Jones

Lucy Jones

26, Dec, 2022 @8:00 AM

Why growing fungi at home is beginning to mushroom

Home fungus growers can boost soil quality in small gardens and cultivate exotic varieties using coffee grounds and online kits

Helena Horton Environment reporter

26, Nov, 2022 @8:00 AM

Country diary: Bonsai birches grow in the tree’s crown

The Marches, Shropshire: Witches’ broom is a curious thing – the result of a fungus and looking like a bird’s nest

Paul Evans

24, Nov, 2022 @5:30 AM

What is black mould and what health problems can it cause?

The fungi are common in homes, with babies and young children most at risk from potential dangers

Ian Sample Science editor

15, Nov, 2022 @5:42 PM

Country diary: Waking up to the glory of waxcaps

Buxton, Derbyshire: This previously overlooked group of fungi are the best of autumn – you can find up to 40 species in just one field

Mark Cocker

15, Nov, 2022 @5:30 AM

Country diary: Another fallen tree, another slow feast for the woodland floor

Wolsingham, Weardale: Snails, fungi and countless insects will thrive on this ash, which has joined other fallen specimens from decades ago

Phil Gates

02, Nov, 2022 @5:30 AM

Country diary: There’s magic to the woods when it rains

Stanmer Woods, East Sussex: It can be as dangerous as drought, but right now, I and all the life around me just feel grateful

Kate Bradbury

24, Oct, 2022 @4:30 AM

Summer heat made UK plants more vulnerable to fungi and pests, RHS warns

Plants damaged by extreme temperatures are most at risk of disease, Royal Horticultural Society says

Yasmeen Louis

14, Oct, 2022 @9:55 AM

Country diary: The many mysteries of the magic mushroom

Eyam Moor, Derbyshire: It’s the time of year when not-your-average ramblers can be seen hunting for a natural if illegal high

Ed Douglas

14, Oct, 2022 @4:30 AM

Country diary: A desperate feast on a rotting fungus

The Marches, Shropshire: As the heatwave passes, we seem to be left with decline and decomposition