Fused tooth  (Phellodon confluens)

There is no definite evidence that this species has actually suffered a decline (1), however it is rare and certainly needs attention (1). All species of stipitate hydnoid fungi are vulnerable to the effects of atmospheric pollution (1), soil eutrophication, soil disturbance (e.g. by timber management) and competition from vascular plants (1).

There are relatively very few records of Phellodon confluens, and it has probably been greatly under-recorded (1). The UK Biodiversity Action Plan (UK BAP) has produced a Group Action Plan for 14 UK species of stipitate hydnoid fungi (2). A number of sites that support this species, including the New Forest, are Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) or reserves (2). Fused tooth fungus is afforded general protection under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, but it is not one of the four species of non-lichenized fungi given special protection under Schedule 8. Much more research on these fungi is needed if they are to be conserved (1); it is an unfortunate fact that fungi are truly 'the forgotten kingdom' when it comes to conservation action (7).