Fire-loving fungi move in after the Glenmore wildfire
Parts of Glenmore Forest Park were badly damaged by the wildfire that started in July 2026. But amongst the burnt trees and scorched ground, we’re already seeing the beginnings of life returning.
Recovery after a wildfire takes time, but the discovery of pyrophilous (fire-loving) fungi at Glenmore is a welcome sign of hope for the future. These fungi thrive on fire sites and are amongst the first to colonise burnt ground.
Why are fire-loving fungi important to wildfire recovery?
Dave Clarke, our senior programme manager, was first to spot the fungi in the forest park. He said:
They're nature's own Category 1 responders when it comes to wildfire recovery.
That's because these charcoal-loving fungi play an important role in paving the way for regrowth. They step in and gradually create the sorts of conditions and nutrients that can support plants and grasses.
In fact, some grasses are already beginning to re-appear at Glenmore. We've even spotted fresh growth on a heavily burned birch tree, as you can see below.
Where do fire-loving fungi come from?
Several species of fungi are adapted to this environment, with only their often brightly coloured fruiting bodies showing above ground.
Research suggests that some of these fungal species are ever-present in soil, and might even ‘parachute in’ from unburned areas or be present in plants but only become visible when they spring into action after a fire.
The functions they serve are the subject of ongoing, intensive research but it is thought that some fungi break down carbon, and others prevent soil erosion or stop further leaching of nutrients.
Different fungi also seem to appear at different stages of recovery, with one type taking over where a previous type left off until plants and grasses can begin to move in.
What's next for Glenmore?
Cleanup and regeneration at Glenmore will take time. Some areas within the forest park remain closed while we make them safe again for visitors. But the brightly coloured fruiting bodies of these fungi bring hope that the slow and steady journey towards recovery has begun.
If you're visiting Glenmore Forest Park, be sure to pay attention to signs, avoid closed areas and don’t fly drones while thermal drone operations continue.