Earth stars
Scientific name: Geastrales
Earth stars
Scientific name: Geastrales
Photo By Liam O'Brien , used under CC-BY-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Earth stars are fascinating fungi known for their star-shaped fruiting bodies. They have a unique mechanism where the outer layer peels back to form a star shape, revealing a spore sac. This spore sac often sits on top of a short stalk and releases spores through a small opening. These fungi typically grow in soil, woodlands, and grassy areas, especially favoring sandy soils.
Species of Earth stars
Photo By Liam O'Brien , used under CC-BY-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original