habitat_surface_dry
dry
Hypogeous fungi are common in Mediterranean climates, having evolved under selection pressures for survival in warm, dry climates (Montecchi & Sarasini 2000, Trappe & Claridge 2005). Subterranean fruiting strategies conserve moisture and require alternatives to the aerial spore dispersal mechanism common to epigeous mushrooms. Animals, attracted by volatile aromatics produced by the hypogeous fruiting bodies at maturity, dig them up, consume them, and disperse the spores in their feces (Claridge & Trappe 2005).
Pachyphloeus austro-oregonensis
Pachyphlodes austro-oregonensis