Poisonous fungi
Scotland has over 12,000 species of fungi. Fungi have been around for millions of years and come in all shapes, sizes, colours, and smells. They live on wood, roots, soil, leaves, insects, dung – and even on humans.
Much of our wildlife depends on fungi. Fungi exchange food with plants to help them grow and tidies up fallen leaves and dead wood by decomposing and recycling them back into a healthier soil. Fungi also provide food and shelter for wildlife.
SNH also says that we depend on fungi: they help produce many of our everyday foods, including bread, cakes, biscuits and beer, and also our medicines, including antibiotics and cholesterol-busting statins. Paper and dyes can also be made from fungi. Some fungi are tasty to eat, but others are poisonous, so having an expert on hand is very useful.
Iain Jamieson, SNH reserve officer, said: “With so many types of fungi recorded here at Loch Leven, it’s bound to be a really interesting walk – as well as a great chance to learn more about how to identify mushrooms and other fungi.”
The first walk takes place on Sunday, 26 September, at 2pm, meeting at the Findatie car park. The second foray occurs on Sunday, 3 October at 2pm, meeting at the Burleigh sands car park. Both walks are free and are three hours long. To book a place, please call 01577 864439. Outdoor clothing is recommended.