
Community identification
Bird Nest Fungus / Sphaerobolus (Artillery Fungus) Spore
Sphaerobolus stellatus
- Order & Family
- Geastrales, Sphaerobolaceae
- Size
- 1 to 2.5 millimeters in diameter
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.