Scarlet Cup Fungus
We’ve talked about fungi and their complicated lives before, but here’s another one of our cool forest inhabitants: the scarlet cup fungus (Sarcoscypha coccinea). The scarlet fungus lacks the “gills” that we are used to…
The Fungus Among Us
When you begin studying biology you usually begin with plants and animals, and maybe some microbes like plankton and protozoa. Then, one day, you may find yourself learning about mushrooms and realize that with fungi…
Fossil Forensics
Limestone layers of the Cincinnati area tell a tale of ocean life from millions of years ago. Scientists from all over the world come to the tri-state area to find and study these very fossils.…
Bear Corn
We all know that plants use the sun, air and water to make their own food. Well, most plants at least do this. Some just get others to do it for them. Bear corn (Conopholis…
Aquatic Invasive Species: Part 2
Another aquatic invasive species that we see a lot in our parks is pets. The problem is that some people have pet goldfish or turtles that get too big for their tanks, or they just…
Change on the Wind
The more things change, the more they stay the same, but still, one must be ready and willing to learn many new things each day. Out in nature, you will see some of both…you will…
Aquatic Invasive Species: Part 1
What are aquatic invasive species? They can be plants, animals (like fish or turtles) or even bacteria/viruses that are introduced, either accidentally or intentionally, into aquatic ecosystems that they are not native to. Since they…
Small Bug is Big Sign of Stream Health
On a typical day at the parks, you may see many different species of animals and birds, such as white-tailed deer, turkeys or wood ducks. But the parks are also home to many interesting and…