Fused tooth  (Phellodon confluens)

Learn about the scientific name of this species and how it fits into the tree of life at Nature Navigator.

Threats

There is no definite evidence that this species has actually suffered a decline (5), however it is rare and certainly needs attention (5). All species of stipitate hydnoid fungi are vulnerable to the effects of atmospheric pollution (5), soil eutrophication, soil disturbance (e.g. by timber management) and competition from vascular plants (5).

Conservation

There are relatively very few records of Phellodon confluens, and it has probably been greatly under-recorded (5). The UK Biodiversity Action Plan (UK BAP) has produced a Group Action Plan for 14 UK species of stipitate hydnoid fungi (3). A number of sites that support this species, including the New Forest, are Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) or reserves (3). 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 (5); it is an unfortunate fact that fungi are truly 'the forgotten kingdom' when it comes to conservation action (10).

There may be further information about this species available via the National Biodiversity Network Gateway.
The UK Biodiversity Action Plan for this species is available at UK BAP.
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