Bug Identifier
Bird Nest Fungus / Sphaerobolus (Artillery Fungus) Spore
Community identification

Bird Nest Fungus / Sphaerobolus (Artillery Fungus) Spore

Sphaerobolus stellatus

Order & Family
Geastrales, Sphaerobolaceae
Size
1 to 2.5 millimeters in diameter
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Typically found on decaying wood or wood-based mulch in gardens and landscapes.

Diet & Feeding

Saprotrophic (decomposer), feeding on dead organic matter, particularly wood mulch.

Behavior Patterns

Notable for its projectile dispersal method where it launches sticky gleba (spore masses) towards sunlight or light-colored surfaces.

Risks & Benefits

Non-toxic to humans and pets, but the sticky spores can leave dark, difficult-to-remove stains on house siding and cars; beneficial as a natural decomposer of organic matter.