The Fungus Among Us: Hikers Uncover Science of Mushrooms at Champlain South in Old Lyme

OLD LYME, CT – Twenty hikers on Wednesday explored the fascinating world of fungi on the trails of Champlain South Open Space during the Old Lyme Open Space Commission and Old Lyme Land Trust’s latest Hiker’s Happy Hour led by wildlife biologist Kris Vagos.

Vagos, who works with the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge, collected and discussed a variety of mushrooms found on the preserve. Open Space Commission member Andrea Fenton said hikers examined spores, gills, stems and spongy undersides while learning how different species reproduce and interact with their environment.

Following the hike, Fenton said Vagos provided answers to several questions raised during the outing. She explained that chanterelles produce spores on their false gills, or ridges; coral mushrooms release spores from the outer surfaces of their upper branches; and the distinctive purple color of some cort mushrooms results from iron absorbed from the soil binding with an amino acid in the mushroom. Scientists believe the coloration is a byproduct of iron uptake, though its exact purpose remains unknown.

After the walk, hikers reconvened at the Old Lyme Inn, where other attendees had already gathered to enjoy the inn’s signature Trailblazer cocktail and appetizers.

The final Hiker’s Happy Hour of the season is scheduled for Oct. 7 at Mile Creek Preserve.

Editor’s Note: This article was updated to correct the number of attendees.