Habitat and Adaptations

Galerina autumnalis is commonly, but not always, found in mossy habitats which is typically in a warm, moist environment. This is a type of environment that can be found on almost every continent except for Antarctica.

Typically, a cluster of these fungi are found on, or close to, rotten or decaying wood for a dependable food source. As mentioned in the nutrition page, this fungi is known as being a decomposer. Without decomposers, the environment would be cluttered with dead material. The ideal habitat needed for G. autumnalis to thrive consists primarily of dead wood. This diet can be found in more diverse places than simply decomposing the forest floor.

 

 

Tom Volk

To the right is an example of the environment in which G. autumnalis  can be found.
As tempting as it may seem, remember that this is a mushroom that should not be consumed! Moss does not have to be present, but it is usually commonly associated with the fruiting body.

 

   

Tom Volk

 

In this picture G. autumnalis is letting themselves into a home by deciding to grow in the dead wood of a doorway.

 

 

Tom Volk

 

Environmental Adaptations
Since fungi are sessile organisms, it is not able to move in order to acquire its nutrients or change location. Then how do these little mushrooms keep appearing everywhere? With the combination of  hyphae and wind pollinating spores the organism is spread across the environment and feeding on dead wood. Take a look at the nutrition and reproduction pages for more detailed information.

 

The image of Galerina autumnalis to the right shows the structure known as the cap, which houses the gills that contain the spores needed in reproduction. There is also the stem-like section that is called the stipe which can be almost translucent in color when wet.

 

 

Braaten 2013.

 

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