Geastrum triplex (Collared Earthstar)
English Name: Collared Earthstar
(other scientific names Geastrum michelianum)
Earthstars are a stunning group within the basidiomycetes that use a similar spore dispersal mechanism as the puffballs. The outer 'skin' peels back and effectively acts as a little stand to raise the spore containing 'ball' higher into the air currents. Raindrops and passing animals will knock the spore sac causing the spores to puff out of the little hole (ostiole) in the top.
The distinguishing feature of G. triplex gives it its common name 'Collared Earthstar'. The thick outer cover that protects the spore sac in its early stages, splits as it ages. The outer part goes on to create the 'stand' and the inner layer forms the distinct collar that you can see in the images below.
Geastrum quadrifidum has previously been featured as it was new to Scotland, with the site near Blairgowrie still being the only one recorded. G. triplex is found much more regularly but has an interesting, and mostly southern distribution in Scotland. It would be interesting to see just how far up the east coast it fruits (see distribution below).
Find out more about the different divisions within the kingdom of the fungi.
Fruiting:
Records of this are reported from all times of the year. It seems that most earthstars are in good condition in the autumn and early winter and that other records are of the old fruit body which dries out and often remains perfectly recognisable into the following year. This hugely extends the period when recording can take place - unusual for fungi!
Habitat:
On well drained soils, often amongst leaf litter; usually in deciduous woodland. Known also from dunes, gardens, roadside verges and underneath bracken or conifers.
Distribution:
The Checklist gives this as common in England and the Republic of Ireland but occasional everywhere else. In Scotland it is known from across the Central Belt, is locally abundant in East Lothian, but does not appear further north than Fife. The most recent record from St. Andrews (well found Calan!) makes me wonder exactly how far up the east (or indeed the west) coast this species can be found.
Geastrum triplex young material from St. Andrews. Recorder C. Daniels. Photo S. Daniels
Geastrum triplex. Young material clearly showing the collar.
Geastrum triplex
The National Biodiversity Network Gateway records from FRDBI andHBRG datasets are shown on the above map (see terms and conditions at http://data.nbn.org.uk). Data providers and the NBN Trust bear no responsibility for any further analysis or interpretation of the information in the map.
Liz Holden, 2013
Geastrum triplex. Older material with the collar much reduced but just visible below the sac.
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