Mitrula lunulatospora is a species of fungus in the family Helotiaceae, characterized by its small to medium size, yellow to orange-yellow color, and crescent-shaped spores. In East and Central Texas, it typically grows on submerged or partially submerged wood in streams, rivers, and lakes, often fruiting in spring and early summer. The fungus has been found in various freshwater habitats, including the Edwards Plateau and Piney Woods regions, where it plays a role in decomposing woody debris and contributing to aquatic ecosystems.
Pale pinkish orange mushrooms Mitrula lunulatospora in wet area near the creek in Big Creek Scenic Area of Sam Houston National Forest. Shepherd, Texas, April 20, 2019 Lone Star Hiking Trail, Coldspring, TX 77331, USA
Pale pinkish orange mushrooms Mitrula lunulatospora in seepage area near the creek in Big Creek Scenic Area of Sam Houston National Forest. Shepherd, Texas, April 20, 2019 Lone Star Hiking Trail, Coldspring, TX 77331, USA
Group of orange mushrooms Mitrula lunulatospora in seepage area near the creek in Big Creek Scenic Area of Sam Houston National Forest. Shepherd, Texas, April 20, 2019 Lone Star Hiking Trail, Coldspring, TX 77331, USA
Pale pinkish orange mushrooms Mitrula lunulatospora in shallow slowly moving water near the creek in Big Creek Scenic Area of Sam Houston National Forest. Shepherd, Texas, April 20, 2019 Lone Star Hiking Trail, Coldspring, TX 77331, USA
Orange mushrooms Mitrula lunulatospora on wet leaves near the creek in Big Creek Scenic Area of Sam Houston National Forest. Shepherd, Texas, April 20, 2019 Lone Star Hiking Trail, Coldspring, TX 77331, USA
Orange mushrooms Mitrula lunulatospora in shallow slowly moving water in Big Creek Scenic Area of Sam Houston National Forest. Shepherd, Texas, April 20, 2019 Lone Star Hiking Trail, Coldspring, TX 77331, USA
Close up of orange mushrooms Mitrula lunulatospora in Big Creek Scenic Area of Sam Houston National Forest. Shepherd, Texas, April 20, 2019 Lone Star Hiking Trail, Coldspring, TX 77331, USA
AI-generated summary of observations
Mitrula lunulatospora was observed in various wet areas near creeks in the Big Creek Scenic Area of Sam Houston National Forest, Texas. The fungus grew in seepage areas, shallow slowly moving water, and on wet leaves, consistently appearing as pale pinkish orange to orange mushrooms. Observations were made on April 20, 2019, with multiple sightings throughout the area, including near the creek in Shepherd, Texas. The mushrooms were found in groups or individually, with some growing directly in the water and others on nearby vegetation. Close-up observations revealed detailed characteristics of the fungus, further confirming its identity as Mitrula lunulatospora. The consistent presence of the fungus in wet environments suggests a preference for moist conditions.