Pagoda Fungus: The multi-capped fungi

Discovering the Pagoda Fungus on the Margaret River Riverside Trails

Nestled in the heart of the Margaret River region, the Riverside Trails offer more than just picturesque views of the river and dense forest. They are home to an incredibly diverse range of flora and fauna, some of which are not immediately obvious to the casual observer. One such treasure is the elusive and extraordinary Podoserpula pusio, commonly known as the pagoda fungus. This striking species, with its delicate, tiered structure, is a hidden gem that can be found along the forested trails if you know where to look.

Two Pagoda fungus at different stages of growth.

The Magic of the Pagoda Fungus

The Podoserpula pusio, or pagoda fungus, gets its name from its unmistakable appearance. Resembling a miniature pagoda with its layers of upward-curving caps, this tiny fungus can often be overlooked due to its size. However, once you spot it, you’ll quickly realize how remarkable it truly is. The pagoda fungus has multiple, concentric tiers of caps, each smaller than the one beneath it, creating a visually stunning, stepped formation. These delicate, tiered layers give the mushroom an almost architectural quality, reminiscent of ancient pagodas or multi-tiered temples that you might see in Southeast Asia. The caps range from pale cream to golden brown, often with intricate ridges or grooves that add to their sculptural appearance.

This fascinating fungi, though small, can create striking groups or clusters, often growing on decaying wood or in mossy patches of the forest floor. It thrives in damp, shaded environments, which makes the forest along the Margaret River’s Riverside Trails the perfect habitat. It’s not uncommon to see the pagoda fungus growing on fallen logs, tree stumps, or even the trunks of older trees that are beginning to decompose.

Podoserpula pusio: Note the distinct colour and texture, used to help identify this species.

A Closer Look at Its Unique Structure

The tiered structure of the pagoda fungus is undoubtedly one of its most impressive features. Each layer or "tier" of the cap is typically convex, curling upwards as if reaching for the light, giving the entire fungus the appearance of a multi-level structure. The caps themselves can vary in color, from light beige to rich, earthy tones, and their texture is often smooth or slightly wrinkled, adding another level of detail to this already intricate organism.

The underside of the fungus is equally fascinating. Instead of gills or pores, Podoserpula pusio features fine, delicate structures that help release spores, ensuring the continuation of the species. When viewed from below, the fungus takes on an almost delicate, lacy appearance, further enhancing its beauty.

The Beauty of Slow Observation

Finding Podoserpula pusio requires patience and a keen eye. Unlike the larger, more conspicuous mushrooms, the pagoda fungus is small and easy to miss if you're rushing along the trail. However, by adopting a slower pace and focusing on the forest floor, you'll be able to observe the intricate details of this stunning organism and others like it.

In many ways, fungi like the pagoda fungus remind us of the wonders hidden within nature's smallest creations. By spending time looking closely at these tiny organisms, we gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the complex ecosystems that surround us.

So, the next time you’re hiking along the Riverside Trails in Margaret River, take a moment to crouch down, look closely, and discover the hidden beauty of the pagoda fungus. You never know what fascinating fungi might be waiting for you, just a few inches from the trail.