Mushroom circles had magical significance in ancient folklore, being attributed to witches, dragons or dancing fairies. But there’s a natural explanation.
Commonly known as fairy circles or pixie rings, each comprises a single fungus connected underground by threads called mycelia.
When a fungal spore germinates, mycelia radiate out to absorb nutrients from the soil. As nutrients in the centre are exhausted, that part dies, creating an expanding ring.
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Mushrooms then sprout around the perimeter in late summer or autumn. Some fungi create a central ‘dead zone’ whereas others fertilise the soil, generating a circle of lush vegetation.
This article is an answer to the question (asked by Natalie Hudson, Brighton) 'What is a fairy ring?'
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