Truffle Fungi

doi:10.1017/9781316221815.012

8 - Truffle Fungi

from Part II - Results

Published online by Cambridge University Press: 24 July 2026

Grant Woodbridge and

Edited by

Adrian D. Manning: Affiliation:
The Fenner School of Environment and Society, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia

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Summary

This study examined the ecology, diversity and seasonal dynamics of truffle- and mushroom-like fungi in eucalypt woodlands at Mulligans Flat and Goorooyarroo. Surveys conducted in 2008–2009 yielded 486 truffle collections, representing an estimated 85 species – many likely new to science and endemic to Australia. Most were associated with Eucalyptus spp. as mycorrhizal hosts. Fruiting body production varied with soil moisture, influenced by rainfall patterns and infiltration capacity. Mulligans Flat Nature Reserve had higher rainfall and fungal productivity than Goorooyarroo Nature Reserve, with truffles more abundant than mushrooms. Even in dry years, diverse ectomycorrhizal truffles were produced, especially in moister sites. These fungi play a key role in ecosystem functioning, supporting mycophagous fauna such as the eastern bettong and contributing to soil health through excavation, nutrient cycling and water infiltration. The findings underscore the importance of long-term monitoring and interdisciplinary research to understand fungal dynamics, climate resilience and the ecological value of truffles in grassy woodland restoration.

Keywords

Ectomycorrhizal fungi Truffle diversity Mycophagy Grassy woodlands Soil moisture dynamics Fungal fruiting bodies Eastern bettong Climate resilience Long-term ecological research Fungi–animal–tree interactions

Information

Type: Chapter
Information: Rebuilding an Ecosystem
Integrating Applied Research and Restoration
, pp. 175 - 187

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/9781316221815.012 [Opens in a new window]

Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Print publication year: 2026

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