Phenology and growth of Dermocybe uliginosa in a willow carr. I. Phenology of fruiting

Abstract

The onset of fruiting by Dermocybe uliginosa was studied in a willow carr surrounded by a sedge-grass marsh. The seasonal courses of various micrometeorological factors, monitored for 10 yr, were analysed as to their importance in relation to the initiation and intensity of fruiting. The regime of soil temperature at 0·05 m depth (Ts), daily minimum temperature above the soil surface (Tmin) and water-vapour pressure (e) were found to control the initiation of fruiting. Ts must attain, at least, 12·5 °C. A fall of Tmin betw I and about 5·5° for one or two days during this time was an additional stimulus to the initiation of fruiting. A decrease or increase of e for 10–20 d immediately afterwards determined whether fruit bodies were abundant or scarce.