A nationally rare fungus has been spotted in the New Forest for the first time, delighting conservationists and wildlife enthusiasts. The Candelabra Coral fungus, named for its creamy white, crown-like branches, has been found at six separate sites across the forest in recent weeks.
Professor Russell Wynn, director of Wild New Forest, who discovered one of the sightings, described its sudden appearance as “remarkable.” He added that its distinctive shape makes it unlikely the species would have been missed in previous surveys, leaving experts puzzled as to why it has appeared now.
The fungus, which can grow up to 10cm high, thrives on decaying wood in moist woodland environments. After being absent for decades, the Candelabra Coral was rediscovered in Suffolk in 2012 and has since been recorded in at least ten English counties over the last five years.
Some of the New Forest sites where the fungus has been spotted are part of the Species Survival Fund (SSF) project, a £1.3 million initiative led by the National Park Authority with five partner organisations. The project aims to halt species decline and restore habitats across an area equivalent to 350 football pitches.
Efforts so far have included planting wildflower meadows, creating ponds, and restoring heathlands and woodlands to encourage wildlife. Wild New Forest has also conducted detailed surveys to identify priority species and assess biodiversity, helping guide restoration work.
The appearance of the Candelabra Coral is seen as a positive sign for conservation efforts, highlighting the potential for rare species to flourish when habitats are carefully managed.
