Olive earthtongue  (Microglossum olivaceum)

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

Description

The family of fungi known collectively as 'earthtongues' are aptly named. The shape of the upper part of the fungus, called the head, closely resembles a grooved and flattened animal tongue. There are a number of species within this family of fungi, but only one other in the genus Microglossum. That fungus, M. viride, is a woodland species, has a scaly stem or 'stipe', and is a dark olive-green. M. olivaceum has a smooth stipe, and appears to be far more variable in colour. Some are pale brown, others similar but darkening towards the top of the head. There are also records of this species that have dark brown heads and turquoise stipes.

WARNING: many species of fungus are poisonous or contain chemicals that can cause sickness. Never pick and eat any species of fungus that you cannot positively recognise or are unsure about. Some species are deadly poisonous and can cause death within a few hours if swallowed.

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