A rare and strikingly pink fungus, Clavaria calabrica, also known as the pale pink fairy club fungus, has been recorded in Great Britain for the first time. This tennis ball-sized fungus was discovered during a waxcap watch survey conducted in Somerset last autumn.
The discovery was made by dedicated Naturewatch volunteers from Somer Valley Rediscovered in Haydon Batch during a course led by local fungus enthusiast Dan Nicholas. The identification was confirmed through DNA analysis, marking the first ever sighting of this species anywhere in mainland Great Britain.
Dan Nicholas reflected on the find: “We had a fantastic morning cataloging 15 species of brightly colored waxcap fungi. To crown it with a species new to Great Britain was truly exceptional. Confirming the fungus involved a nationwide effort, with DNA extracted in Scotland and sequenced at the University of Aberystwyth in Wales.”
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Originally identified by scientists in Italy in 2017, Clavaria calabrica thrives in gently managed, species-rich grasslands. While it has previously been seen in Northern Ireland, this is its debut on the British mainland.
Experts emphasize the importance of waxcaps and similar fungi as indicators of rare, ancient grassland ecosystems. These habitats are vital not only for fungi and wildflowers but also for supporting pollinators like bees and butterflies, improving soil health, storing more carbon than intensively farmed land, and combating climate change.
The fungus was found as part of the Somer Valley Rediscovered project, a collaboration involving Bath & North East Somerset Council and local town and parish councils. Funded by the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority, the project is dedicated to enhancing biodiversity and connecting communities with their natural surroundings.
To further involve the public, the West of England Wildlife Index invites residents to participate in monitoring local wildlife such as bees, butterflies, plants, and wetland birds across 20 sites. Volunteers receive guidance from the project ecologists, contributing valuable data to the region’s State of Nature report.
Helen Godwin, Mayor of the West of England, praised the discovery: “Finding a species new to Great Britain here in the West showcases the uniqueness of our region’s landscapes. The work of the West of England Nature Partnership ensures these vital habitats are recognized and protected. I encourage everyone to join the West of England Wildlife Index and help preserve the natural beauty around us.”