WriterByNature.com

June 20, 2009 7:59 pm

When new species of fungi are discovered, they are typically named by the people who discovered them either with their own names or the name of someone they wish to honor – or torment.

The current issue of Mycologia, a journal devoted to fungi, features a newly discovered species of stinkhorn mushroom.

Apparently the scientists who discovered this mushroom (Professors Dennis Desjardin and Brian Perry of San Fransisco State University) decided to name it after a colleague (named Robert Drewes, Curator of Herpetology at California Academy of Scientist).

The new mushroom, Phallus drewesii, found on the African island of Sao Tome,  is described as two-inches long, with a white net-like stem and brown spore-covered head. It  grows on wood, has a foul odor like rotting meat, and unlike other members of the stinkhorn genus, Phallus drewesii curves downward, rather than upward.

Stinkhorns attract flies, which consume the spores and then disperse them.

Clearly Drewes has a sense of humor. I have no doubt that he’ll find a way to pay back his colleagues with a discovery in the world of herpetology.

June 18, 2009 7:55 pm

Mature Dryad’s saddle:

Timber rattler:

9:02 am

I know that everything the President of the United States does is a matter of public record. Swatting a fly seems hardly newsworthy to me. If I had swatted the fly, I’d have eaten it. I believe in eating what I kill.

Flooding and all water-related issues have dominated my life this year. Our CSA farmer says he’d rather have a dry year than a wet year, especially when irrigation is an option.

The universe is still laughing at my plan to spend most, if not all of the lengthening days of June outdoors under the stars. (more…)

June 10, 2009 1:52 am

In the face of an increasingly non-level playing field, my only option is to “think outside the box,” when it comes to personal and business survival.

For me the key question is, “Will I be able to sustainably maintain this system to support my quality of life?” If not, what’s my plan for when I hit diminishing returns? (more…)

June 2, 2009 1:16 am

I’m an education junkie and I have been blessed with excellent teachers.

My commitment to understanding the natural world is increasingly important. Which means that I refuse to let my time be robbed by promises of improved business results. There’s no quick route to understanding nature, but if I can provide meaningful information and value, then I’ll have to live with that as my definition of success. (more…)