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Astraeus hygrometricus
These were large earthstars, about 45 mm across. They were fully open with split pale rays of areolated (cracked) outer skins (exoperidia). In the centre was a smooth rounded spore sac (endoperidium) with a central pore through which the spores are released. These earthstars were sessile (no stalk).
Spotted on moist ground under pine trees.
The outer layer which is able to absorb moisture does so in wet conditions, uncurling itself to expose and push-up the spore sac. The reverse happens as the earthstar dries. This action is said to help disperse spores.
Its ability to absorb moisture gives the species its name "hygrometricus".
This species is not related to true earthstars of the Geastrum genus.
Known to be used in Indian and Chinese medicine.
Family: Diplocystaceae
Spotted on Jul 16, 2015
Submitted on Jul 17, 2015
3 Comments
Very nice.
Thank you arlanda.
Nice spotting, Leuba