2400 Year old mushroom

 

Until August of 2000 it was thought that the largest living organism was a fungus of the same species
(Armillaria ostoyae) that covered 1,500 acres (600 hectares) found living in the state of Washington.


Spreading and killing trees.



This most recent find was estimated to cover over 2,200 acres (890 hectares) and be at least 2,400 years old, possibly older.

To go into the forest where this giant makes its home you would not look at it and see a huge,
 looming mushroom. Armillaria grows and spreads primarily underground and the sheer bulk
of this organism lies in the earth, out of sight.

Occasionally, during the fall season, this specimen will send up golden-colored "honey mushrooms"  
that are the visible evidence of its hulking mass beneath.


Scientists have not yet begun to attempt to estimate the weight of this specimen of Armillaria.

How is it possible for a single fungus to get so big?
Scientists who study this species of funges have postulated that the huge size may be a function of the dry climate in eastern Oregon. Spores
 
The fungus, also known as the honey mushroom, spreads below ground by sending out these stringy rhizomorphs.
have a hard time establishing new organisms, making room for the old-timers to spread.

Without competition from other specimens this enormous Armillaria has been able to grow and spread unchecked.


Thank you Rina for this info.

http://www.eposvriende.com