Vertebrate consumption and dispersal of the Nothofagaceae associated ascomycete Cyttaria

Abstract

Fungi are an important food source for a diversity of vertebrates and invertebrates around the world and in turn, these animals play a key part in the dispersal of many fungi. These associations have been most thoroughly studied between mammals and truffles. In this natural history note, we provide the first report of mycophagy by the Australian King-Parrot (Alisterus scapularis) and the first documentation of wildlife consumption of the genus Cyttaria in Australia. We also review the literature regarding use of this southern hemisphere endemic genus Cyttaria for food by vertebrates and how these associations may impact its dispersal.

An Austral Ecology 5 year retrospective on Natural History Notes: A compelling case for curiosity

“…Community structure and dynamics including species abundance, distribution and behaviour are influenced by species interactions such as predation and foraging behaviours (Hall & Raffaelli, 1993; Mougi & Kondoh, 2012). Australian king parrot ( Alisterus scapularis ) consuming Nothofagaceae‐associated ascomycete Cyttaria may impact its dispersal (Elliott & Elliott, 2019). An observation of a pit viper ( Bothrops jararaca ) ambush hunting torrent frogs ( Hylodes cardosoi ) attracted by a courtship display behaviour demonstrates potentially how predation as an ecological interaction may drive evolution (such as evolution of sexual displays) (D'Bastiani et al., 2023); and a heath monitor ( Varanus rosenbergi ) observed consuming a radio‐tracked painted dragon ( Ctenophorus pictus ), provided information on habitat use, with V. rosenbergi using a hollow logs for shelter (Westaway et al., 2024).…”

Invertebrate Assemblages on Biscogniauxia Sporocarps on Oak Dead Wood: An Observation Aided by Squirrels

“…Dead wood is an essential component of biodiversity in forest ecosystems [1,2]. Fungi, in particular, is a major group of saproxylic communities; they have a large impact on saproxylic communities due to their unique wood decay abilities [3], and their fruit bodies and spores are important to the diet of a variety of organisms, including protozoa [4], invertebrates [5], and vertebrates [6,7]. A better understanding of the relationships between fungi and saproxylic communities is critical to clarifying the mechanisms that maintain biodiversity in forest ecosystems.…”