The Wood Wide Web

During our 2024 research walks at Cubbon Park, Biplab and I search for networks above and below the soil. We zoom into a world that underpins plant networks. Sometimes referred to as the Wood Wide Web – a contested metaphor for its techno-optimistic humanisation – fungi form mycorrhizal networks which transfer nutrients and minerals between plants. We look for mushrooms, as well as small formations of mycelium on rotting wood.

On the bark of a branch, a fine white network of mycelium spreads out. The mycelium is white, and very fine, so that its edges resemble fine fibers.

A branch is covered in white mycelium from its outside, whereas its inside is visible through a split in the wood that shows that it is actually hollow. The bark cracks at different positions, and the mycelium grows around these cracks.

On a piece of bark, a fine white network of mycelium spreads out. The way the closeup is taken, the mycelium is well lit and sits atop the wooden structure like snow sits on the ground on a cold day.

The camera has zoomed in on multiple patches of mycelium on the bark of a tree. The mycelium structures are white with brown speckles, and look otherworldly.