Clavulina floridana

About

Clavulina floridana is a species of fungus in the family Clavulinaceae. It was originally described by Rolf Singer as Clavaria floridana in 1945, then E.J.H. Corner transferred it to Clavulina in 1950.Clavulina floridana is considered a Neotropical coral fungus, typically found growing in humid tropical environments. It has been observed growing on the forest floors on top of decaying trees and branches. During the summer months, the humidity that comes from decaying leaves, twigs, and other organic material helps make the fungus thrive. Like other members of its genus, Clavulina, it has the characteristic of having coral-like branches which extend up form the ground. These branches have apexes that are typically lighter than the rest of the body. The fungus reproduces sexually through sexual structures called basidiospores. These are characteristically known for being club-shaped and for having cells called basidia. The microscopic spores are released into the environment with a mechanism that with a Buller’s drop it gets launched into the air and dispersed. It is also responsible for helping several species of trees to receive nutrients and they in return receive resources that they would otherwise struggle to get.

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