QUICK FACT: It grows only after snowmelt, often on debarked dead wood at high elevations.

THREATS: Warming winters and reduced snowpack threaten the brief melt window it needs to appear.

IMPORTANCE: It is a high-alpine decomposer that cycles nutrients and helps regulate microbial communities.

Photo credit: Alain Michaud

QUICK FACT: It grows only after snowmelt, often on debarked dead wood at high elevations.

THREATS: Warming winters and reduced snowpack threaten the brief melt window it needs to appear.

IMPORTANCE: It is a high-alpine decomposer that cycles nutrients and helps regulate microbial communities.

Photo credit: Alain Michaud