ROYAL MAIL has championed the ecological importance of mushroom species across the UK in a new collection of stamps, writes Jeanna Karcz.
Ten stamps have been issued by the Royal Mail, showcasing the diversity of mushroom species throughout the UK. Having worked with well-known mycologist, Geoffery Kibby, one of Britain’s foremost experts on mushroom identification, having written and illustrated numerous books and field guides on fungi species found across Europe and North America.
He said: “Fungi are finally getting the attention they deserve in literature, education and on TV, and now their amazing diversity and importance to our ecology is being celebrated in this excellent set of Royal Mail stamps.
“The species illustrated show the wide variety of fungi to be found in the British countryside, emphasising ther importance as a vital part of the fascinating biodiversity to be found in our islands.”
The mushroom species pictured in the stamps are: Chicken of the Wood, Clustered Bonnet, Scarlet Waxcap, Morel, Scarlet Elf Cap, Penny Bun, Amethyst Deceiver, Collared Earthstar, Fly Agaric and Turkey Tail. These are only a handful of the 4,000 varieties of mushroom in the UK today.
David Gold, director of external affairs and policy for Royal Mail, said: “Few people will be familiar with the breadth, variety and beauty of the fungi that are of such biological importance to our natural environment. Mushrooms play an essential role in the delicate balance of life around us, yet largely go unnoticed.
“In these stamps their contribution to the natural environment is duly recognised”.
Stamps are available for pre-order until the 3rd of July, at which point they go on general sale for £13.75 for each ten. Visit royalmail.com/mushrooms or dial 03457 641 641 to pre-order.
