DSC_8100798 Fischer's egg (Claustula fischeri) an extremely rare fungus with a strange, disjunct distribution. It has only been recorded from the Nelson Region in the north west of the South Island, and Otago in the south east. It is the sole New Zealand survivor of an ancient Gondwanan lineage, restricted to Australasia and South America. Fischer's egg produces spores within the conspicuous white egg-shaped receptacle that emerges from a brown, gelatinous protective cover. Although it is a 'stinkhorn', it appears to be odourless. Its distinctive appearance, (the white receptacle is the size of a hen's egg), may encourage animals and birds to eat it, thereby dispersing the spores - certainly some eggs appear partially eaten - however the dispersal mechanism is still unknown. Eastern Otago *
DSC_8100803 Fischer's egg (Claustula fischeri) an extremely rare fungus with a strange, disjunct distribution. It has only been recorded from the Nelson Region in the north west of the South Island, and Otago in the south east. It is the sole New Zealand survivor of an ancient Gondwanan lineage, restricted to Australasia and South America. Fischer's egg produces spores within the conspicuous white egg-shaped receptacle that emerges from a brown, gelatinous protective cover. Although it is a 'stinkhorn', it appears to be odourless. Its distinctive appearance, (the white receptacle is the size of a hen's egg), may encourage animals and birds to eat it, thereby dispersing the spores - certainly some eggs appear partially eaten - however the dispersal mechanism is still unknown. Eastern Otago *
DSC_2320 White basket fungus, or kopurawhetu (Ileodictyon cibarium) showing the egg from which the growing fruit-body bursts free and unfolds. The lattice-work of the basket is covered in brown spore mass, and smells of rotting meat, attracting flies which feed on the liquid and disperse the spores. The basket can also break free from the egg and blow across the ground dispersing spores. This iconic native fungus has more than 35 Maori names, indicating it was well known throughout many regions of NZ. Also known from Australia. Dunedin *
