The Isles of Scilly Biodiversity Audit 2008 - Cornwall Wildlife Trust

2.2.1.2 Charophytes - StonewortsOverviewStoneworts are a small group of terrestrial orfreshwater simple, green algae, of the familyCharophyta. They inhabit aquatic habitats, such asfresh and brackish pools and wetlands. Stonewortshave a requirement for calcium carbonate whichaccumulates on the surface of the plant giving thecharacteristically hard coating. Although usuallyassociated with calcareous waters, stonewortsare also found in coastal pools including oneswith muddy substrates, consequently the greatestconcentration and diversity of these species are foundon the coastal sand dunes and in pools situated onbasic soils.Important AreasThe only site in the Isles of Scilly where stonewortshave been recorded is the Abbey Pool on Tresco. Thereis some confusion as to which species was recorded.Further investigation is needed.Conservation ImportanceThere are no species of particular conservationimportance recorded in the Isles of Scilly.Trends and IssuesResearchMore research is required in order to fully establishwhether there are any species of stoneworts in the Islesof Scilly. Nick Stewart, a Chara specialist, suggests theAbbey Pool should be investigated as there could be arare Chara there.Inonotus hispidus on Tresco. Photo: Jean Paton2.2.1.3 Fungi - Mushrooms andToadstoolsOverviewMushrooms and toadstools are collectively knownas fungi, which are a kingdom in themselves, beingneither plants or animals. There is a range of fungi, butthe more familiar mushrooms and toadstools. can stillgrow in a number of forms – as a mat of fungal roots,or hyphae, in the soil, from which the characteristicfruiting bodies arise; as parasites on live plants; orbreaking down the organic matter on dead or animaldroppings.Habitats include woods, grasslands, sand dunes anddomestic gardens. Fungi require similar conditions toflowering plants. Therefore, if areas are managed wellfor plants involving grazing, and lack of fertilisers,fungal diversity will also tend to be maintained.Important AreasThere are no areas known to be of particularimportance for fungi in the Isles of Scilly, butthat does not mean that there are none. Species ofnational conservation importance are present inScilly and the significance of their locations needs tobe considered.Conservation ImportanceThere are two species on the BAP priority list:Elegant Earthstar Geastrum elegansCoral Tooth Hericium coralloidesTrends and IssuesResearchIt would be useful if an expert review of themushrooms and toadstools of the Isles of Scilly werecarried out. This is a group that is only moderatelywell understood on the mainland of Cornwall andthere appears to have been very little fieldwork carriedout in the Isles of Scilly.Isles of Scilly biodiversity audit Page 15