Cortinarius lacustris

Cortinarius lacustris is a rare species of toadstool that has been recently recorded in the wetlands of the New Forest.

It belongs to the large Cortinarius group of fungi, many of which form important relationships with trees by linking to their roots underground.

This species is associated with damp woodland and boggy habitats, often growing near birch or other trees in wet ground.

Like many fungi found in the New Forest, it plays a valuable ecological role by helping trees absorb nutrients from the soil while also contributing to the breakdown and recycling of organic matter.