Common earthball

Description:

Earthballs are superficially similar to, and considered look-alikes of the edible Puffball, but whereas the Puffball has a single opening on top through which the spores are dispersed, the Earthball just breaks up to release the spores. Moreover, Scleroderma citrinum has much firmer flesh and a dark gleba much earlier in development than Puffballs. Scleroderma citrinum has no stem but is attached to the soil by mycelial cords. The peridium, or outer wall, is thick and firm, usually ochre yellow externally with irregular warts.

Habitat:

The Common earthball is very common and widespread throughout of Britain and Ireland. These poisonous fungi are found also throughout mainland Europe and in North America. Acid soils, especially on the compacted paths in forests, are its main habitat.

Notes:

Spotted in rural area of Deventer, Holland.