Fungi(mushrooms, puffballs, truffles, brackets, corals, etc.) are the decomposers of the natural world. By breaking down dead organic material, they continue the cycle of nutrients through ecosystems. The shapes, colours and forms are fascinating! They may revolt us or cure, feed and delight us. Many vascular plants could not grow without the symbiotic fungi, or mycorrhizae, that inhabit their roots and supply essential nutrients. Drugs such as penicillin, and yeast which makes bread rise are members of the fungi kingdom.

How to you spot a fungus?
The part of the fungus that we see is only the fruiting body of the organism. The living body of the fungus called mycelium is composed of a web of tiny filaments called hyphae. This mycelium is usually hidden in the soil, in wood, or another food source. They live unseen until they develop fruiting bodies which we see as mushrooms, puffballs, etc. Fungi spread by spores which are microscopic in size. Different species fruit at various times during the year, but many can be seen in the fall and early winter. Here are a few I've seen while out on the trail. I haven't IDed many of these so if you know what they are let me know.