Scaly tooth  (Sarcodon imbricatus)

All species of stipitate hydnoid fungi are vulnerable to the effects of atmospheric pollution (1), soil eutrophication, soil disturbance (eg by timber management) and competition from vascular plants (1).

The UK Biodiversity Action Plan (UK BAP) has produced a Group Action Plan for 14 UK species of stipitate hydnoid fungi (2). The range of scaly tooth fungus does seem to have declined since 1960, but it may have been under-recorded (1). It 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. Scottish Natural Heritage is conducting an extensive survey of tooth fungi in Scotland (10). Much more research on these fungi is needed if they are to be conserved (1); it is unfortunate that fungi are truly 'the forgotten kingdom' when it comes to conservation action (7).