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.
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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