Fabulous Fungi Around the Globe

It’s our fervent hope that each of you, our readers, will enjoy and appreciate this article we present about these Fabulous Fungi Around the Globe. It was certainly our true pleasure to gather the various information for you. May it provide you with both education and increased awareness.

Certainly, these few species listed here represent only a portion of the related marvels found throughout the entirety of the earth. It’s our belief, though, that they serve as excellent examples of their form of life. We also invite you to check out some of our numerous other articles.

Jelly Ear

Jelly Ear Facts

• Leading off this article about Fabulous Fungi Around the Globe we present the creation of evolution distinctively named the Jelly Ear.
• This highly distinctive variety of fungus most frequently goes by the simple yet uncannily descriptive common name used herein. Like many species on earth, though, it also bears still other, alternate names. These options include such terms as Jew’s Ear and the Judas’s Ear.
• Among professionals, such as researchers, however, it’s perhaps much better known by its technical name. That term, though, as such things do, remains quite difficult for the layperson to pronounce. That’s because it holds the technical name of Auricularia auricula-judae.
• Its naming took a rather circuitous path. The eminent Swedish botanist, Carl Linnaeus recorded the first known description of the mushroom, in 1753. Later, however, the French botanist Jean Bulliard renamed it. The wonder received the name it presently holds in 1822.
• The Jelly Ear appears to presently be maintaining a population base that’s both stable and sufficient. This fortunate fact further seems to hold true throughout the entirety of its native range. The IUCN thus presently has no listing for it on its Red List of Threatened Species.
• The marvel of Nature nevertheless must be considered as facing at least some threats to its continued existence as a species. These, though, remain the same most species face. Habitat loss certainly qualifies. Its greatest threat, however, most likely consists of climate change.

Jelly Ear Physical Description

The Jelly Ear unquestionably constitutes an intriguing variety of fungus. It fully merits the attention it garners from those who encounter it. It further does so due to several factors. Its sheer size qualifies as one of those. Though by no means the largest, it’s an above-average sized specimen.

Individual specimens sometimes attain a diameter measuring as much as 3.5 in (9 cm). Most, however, tend to remain slightly smaller than that. The species also achieves a thickness of up to 0.12 in (3 mm). Each example, though, tends to develop in its own entirely unique exact shape.

But overall, members of the species develop as a shape often compared by observers to that of a floppy human ear. That therefore serves as the origin of the most often used name. Some examples, though, occasionally display a somewhat different shape. These typically appear cup-shaped.

Most specimens of the highly distinctive Jelly Ear attach themselves laterally to a surface. This means that these do not possess a stalk. A small percentage of them, do, however, develop this feature. Among these less common forms, the stalk nevertheless remains extremely short in length.

While living, the body displays a realtively tough, gelatinous texture that’s slightly elastic to the touch. The majority of the upper surface also displays a mainly reddish-tan shade. This same part of the fungus also often possesses a light purplish hue. It also frequently manifests tiny gray hairs.

• Kingdom: Fungi
• Phylum: Basidiomycota
• Class: Agaricomycetes
• Order: Auriculariales
• Family: Auriculariaceae
• Genus: Auricularia
• Species: A. auricula-judae

Jelly Ear Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

The remarkable Jelly Ear evolved as native to an extremely large swathe of the surface of the globe. Not surprisingly, that same region’s already well known for its great abundance of intriguing flora and fauna. That’s because this wonder of Nature developed natively in what’s now Europe.

In fact, the fascinating fungus appears in virtually all parts of this beautiful continent. Intriguingly, however, evidence additionally indicates that this product of Nature never existed naturally beyond this region. Related species do live in other parts of the world, but not this specific fungus.

It also displays decidedly clear preferences for where it chooses to appear. This primarily consists of areas of temperate forest. The natural wonder even manifests obvious preferences for which types of hosts. This consists almost exclusively of several species of deciduous trees and shrubs.

This intriguing product of evolution most commonly develops on elder trees. Other, less popular, hosts include varieties such as spindle, ash, beech, and sycamore. Conifers, though, rarely play host to this particular fungus. It also prefers to develop on notably older, or even dead, branches.

The amazing Jelly Ear most frequently develops as an entirely solitary species. It nevertheless does occasionally develop in small clusters. Fascinatingly, it also makes appearances throughout the year, even during winter. Its numbers do usually tend to be slightly fewer during that season, though.

Like other all other known fungi on earth, this unique looking variety reproduces via the spreading of its very tiny spores. In its particular case, however, it ejects these from the underside of the fruit body. It also produces and ejects as many as several hundred thousand of these per hour!

Indigo Milk Cap

Indigo Milk Cap Facts

• The next species chosen for inclusion in this compendium of Fabulous Fungi Around the Globe is the aptly-named Indigo Milk Cap.
• Most frequently known by this fully appropriate common name, this brilliantly colored mushroom easily dazzles the eye. It also has several other general names it’s known by, though. These alternate terms include the similar blue milk mushroom and indigo lactarius.
• Scientific professionals, however, typically refer to the amazing fungus by its official, purely scientific name. That’s the relatively simple term, as such things go, of the Lactarius indigo. Regardless of which term one chooses to employ, though, it’s a marvel of evolution.
• The remarkable species received its present name at the hands of the respected German-American mycologist, Lewis David de Schweinitz. This highly noted researcher assigned it the term it’s now known by as a result of reclassification. He took this action in the year 1838.
• The very first known recognition of it as a separate and distinct species, however, actually took place in the year 1822. The same renowned researcher that later changed the name due to reclassification also made the first formal acknowledgement of the incredible fungus.
• The intriguing Indigo Milk Cap appears to be maintaining a population base that’s both sizeable and stable. This further seems to hold true throughout the entirety of its natural range. The IUCN therefore has no listing for it on the organization’s Red List of Threatened Species.
• Nevertheless, that status could potentially change in the very near future. That’s because, like most species on earth, it faces several threats to its continued existence. Habitat loss naturally poses a danger. It’s greatest threat, though, likely consists of the peril of climate change.

Indigo Milk Cap Physical Description

The visually distinctive Indigo Milk Cap quickly draws the attention of all those individuals fortunate enough to encounter it. It does so for several reasons, though, not just because of its remarkable coloring. This marvelous fungus is truly an impressive creation of Nature and evolution.

For starters, the brightly shaded mushroom varies in size, frequently significantly, like most of its realtives around the world. That’s due to a wide a variety of reasons, including local environmental factors. Most specimens, however, attain a cap diameter ranging between 2 – 6 in (5 – 15 cm).

The stem of this marvel of the world of mycology, meanwhile, ranges from 0.8 – 3 in (2 – 8 cm) in height. The thickness of this specific portion of the species also varies markedly. This measurement itself ranges from between 0.4 – 1. in (1 – 2.5 cm). This usually provides it with a stable base.

The edges of the cap also roll under as the fungus slowly matures. It shares this trait with several other members of its genus. The mushroom also shares the characteristic that serves as part of its very name. That’s because, if the flesh is damaged, a milk-like substances slowly oozes out.

Yet it’s the coloring of the stunning Indigo Milk Cap thata generally garners the most attention. That’s due to the fact that this presents as a brilliant shade of indigo blue. Even the aforementioned milky substance within it shows the same shade! This slowly changes to green in air, however.

• Kingdom: Fungi
• Phylum: Basidiomycota
• Class: Agaricomycetes
• Order: Russulales
• Family: Russulaceae
• Genus: Lactarius
• Species: L. indigo

Indigo Milk Cap Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

Fortunately, both for the Indigo Milk Cap itself, and those of us who appreciate Nature, the mushroom has an extremely large range of habitation. That’s because the marvel of evolution inhabits various portions of the continents of North America, Central America, Asia, and Europe.

In Europe, it’s only known to appear in parts of southern France. In Asia, though, the wonder lives in both China and India. Meanwhile, in Central America, the fungus is known to inhabit Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Colombia. Elsewhere, it thrives in the southern and eastern United States.

There, the majority of specimens of this impressive fungus develop across a range that runs along the Gulf Coast of the United States, to the Appalachian Mountains. There, however, its population concentrations become somewhat scarce. Small groupings do appear elsewhere, though.

All regions in which it makes its home, though, share various natural attributes, of course. Chief among these requirements tands the presence of sufficient moisture. Warm temperatures also represent another factor. Common locations include damp forests, frequently of pine or oak.

Much like many of its numerous relatives, the intriguing Indigo Milk Cap evolved a highly mutualistic relationship with certain species of plants. These include pine and oak, thus explaining its preference for forests containing a high ratio of such species. It mainly thrives on the roots.

There, the intriguing mushroom extracts fixed carbon from its host tree. In exchange, however, the tree itself also benefits. That’s due to the quantities of various amino acids and minerals the fungus removes from the surrounding soil. These it feeds to the host, ensuring mutual survival.

Black Witches’ Butter

Black Witches’ Butter Facts

• The third entry into this listing of Fabulous Fungi Around the Globe is the unusually formed variety known by the term of the Black Witches’ Butter.
• The distinctive term it’s typically given serves as only the most frequently used name for this amazing fungus. It actually goes by several other alternate titles, as well. These options include the unique terms of the black jelly roll, and the warty jelly fungus.
• Its purely scientific name, however, is that of the Exidia glandulosa. Regardless of which of these choices one uses to refer to it, though, it’s an impressive species. Unfortunately, it’s often confused with another, visually similar species with which its shares its habitat range.
• The first known official recognition of it as a separate and distinct species took place in the year 1789. Regrettably, though, the remarkable fungus also served as the center of some controversy in scientific circles. This holds true due to several questions about its naming.
• The French botanist Jean Baptiste François Pierre Bulliard made the original identification and taxonomic naming. In 1822, however, the Swedish botanist and mycologist Elias Magnus Fries placed it in another genus. This action served to combine it with the related species.
• Then, in 1936, other experts separated the two once again. This occurred at the hands of the German mycologist, Walther Neuhoff. He, however, made yet another mistake in the naming of the two. Later, still another mycologist, Marinus Anton Donk, finally corrected this.
• The impressive and distinctive Black Witches’ Butter seems to have a stable and sufficient population base. This further appears to hold true throughout the entirety of its native range. The IUCN therefore presently has no listing for it on its Red List of Threatened Species.
• The fungus nevertheless does face certain threats to its continued existence as a species. Habitat loss certainly poses a danger to it, as the forests in which it thrives in vanish. Likely, though, the greatest danger it faces comes in the form of the ongoing effects of climate change.

Black Witches’ Butter Physical Description

It must be pointed out that the intriguing Black Witches’ Butter frequently possesses a highly irregular shape. This tendency therefore makes an accurate description of its physical appearance extremely difficult. Certain basic patterns do appear, however, and it’s those we’ll elaborate on.

Overall, the fruit bodies of this particular fungus attain an average diameter measuring around 1.2 in (3 cm). This feature develops on top of an irregularly shaped stalk, which usually measures almost as wide as the cap itself. These parts further generally appear in small groupings or clusters.

The body of the fascinating fungus also develops a somewhat surprising texture. That’s because this outer covering evolved a principally gelatinous or rubbery feel to it. This aspect of the species remains firm, though. This, however, only maintains itself if the mushroom is fresh and young.

When this wonder of nature becomes either wet or aged, this changes to a lax nature. Its shape also often becomes distorted at this time. The stark black hue of the aptly-named Black Witches’ Butter, though, remains its most noticeable feature. It also frequently has a shiny appearance to it.

• Kingdom: Fungi
• Phylum: Basidiomycota
• Class: Agaricomycetes
• Order: Auriculariales
• Family: Auriculariaceae
• Genus: Exidia
• Species: E. glandulosa

Black Witches’ Butter Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

For the moment, the precise extent of the range of distribution of the astonishing Black Witches’ Butter remains undetermined by researchers. That’s due to the fact that it’s so often confused with another, visually similar, species. The two appear to roughly share the same territorial range.

It can only be said for certain that this product of evolution inhabits the continent of Europe. It’s frequently spotted in both the United Kingdom and Ireland, among others. Reports further indicate the possibility of its presence, naturally or otherwise, in much of the Northern Hemisphere.

Wherever this distinctive marvel of Nature makes an appearance, its habitat preferences continue to be quite clear displayed. That’s because it’s commonly seen in regions of forest. Although it lives among evergreens as well, it typically appears in regions formed of mainly deciduous trees.

Even within that ecosystem, however, it still displays even further preferences. The intrepid fungus most frequently makes its home on various broadleaf trees. These most commonly consist of various oak trees. Others, such as beech or hazel, sometimes serve as host to the fungus, though.

Like many of its many related kindred across the globe, the Black Witches’ Butter evolved as a wood-rotting variety. When it makes an appearance on a host tree, it usually does so on a long-dead limb. Once there, it typically produces the distinctive fruit bodies in Autumn and Winter.

Bleeding Tooth Fungus

Bleeding Tooth Fungus Facts

• Making its appearance in this portion of this collection of Fabulous Fungi Around the Globe, the Bleeding Tooth Fungus does so only due to random selection.
• Just its distinctive name alone serves as enough to make this remarkable species stand out in the minds of most people. Yet, it also holds several other titles. These include the terms Red-juice tooth, Devil’s tooth, and Strawberries and Cream fungus.
• Within the scientific community, however, it’s perhaps better known by its purely technical designation. Unfortunately, that’s a tag that’s rather difficult for the layperson to pronounce. That’s because the distinctive species holds the official moniker of Hydnellum peckii.
• This marvel of evolution received that particular epithet due the efforts of Howard James Baker. The respected American mycologist accomplished the first formal acknowledgement of it as a separate and distinct species. He achieved this scientifically noteworthy feat in 1913.
• Given its visually unpleasant appearance, many people believe it to be toxic in nature. Technically, though, it contains no chemicals that make it dangerous to consume. Yet, it’s not typically considered edible. That’s due to a tough texture and extremely bitter taste, however.
• Fortunately, the remarkable Bleeding Tooth Fungus appears to be maintaining a population base that’s both stable and sufficient. That pleasant state also seems to hold true throughout the entirety of its native range. The IUCN thus currently has no listing for it on its Red List.
• This wonder nevertheless still faces numerous potential threats to its continued existence as a species, at least. Like all forms of life on earth today, most of these stem from the actions of man. They include the closely related perils of habitat loss and ongoing climate change.

Bleeding Tooth Fungus Physical Description

The astonishing Bleeding Tooth Fungus rarely fails to capture the attention of those individuals who encounter this creation of Nature. Its appearance, considered gruesome by some, obviously ranks as chief among these, especially given the fact that physically it’s only an average-sized mushroom.

Like some of its many kindred found around the world, it possesses a cap and stem structure. The stem evolved a tough, fibrous nature. Vertically, this feature only averages a height between 0.5 – 1.5 in (1 – 3 cm). It’s also quite thin, with a mean diameter of roughly 0.2 – 0.6 in (0.5 – 1.5 cm).

The cap itself, meanwhile, also remains notably small. This develops as rounded, flat to slightly depressed, and occasionally becomes irregular as it matures. Unlike the stem, it possesses a felt-like or velvety texture to its surface. This aspect of the fungus averages 1 – 4 in (2.5 – 10 cm) across.

In color, the small cap typically presents as a pale shade of beige, whitish, or occasionally even pink when young. This color darkens to brown with age. The stem, though, mainfests a pattern of color that ranges from similar to or darker than the cap. This includes shades of grayish or brownish hues.

Obviously, however, the aspect of the remarkable Bleeding Tooth Fungus that usually captures the most attention also serves as the source of the common name. Drops of a deep red, pigment-rich fluid appear on the cap. Notably, these only manifest when the fungus is young and still moist.

Yet, one more feature of its biology also serves to provide this mushroom with a distinctive appearance. On the underside of the cap, instead of gills or pores, it displays multiple short, tooth-like spines. These present as whitish when it’s young, but slowly darken as the individual ages.

• Kingdom: Fungi
• Phylum: Ascomycota
• Class: Agaricomycetes
• Order: Thelephorales
• Family: Bankeraceae
• Genus: Hydnellum
• Species: H. peckii

Bleeding Tooth Fungus Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

Impressively, the fascinating Bleeding Tooth Fungus appears to be indigenous to an extremely extensive swathe of the surface of the earth. Within that broad zone of habitation, though, it simultaneously seems to be present in only widely scattered concentrations across that territory.

The majority of its known populations reside within the borders of North America. There, it’s dound in certain portions of both the United States and Canada. In that latter country, however, it has only a limited presence. There, the wonder’s only known to be present in British Columbia.

Inside the national borders of the contiguous United States, meanwhile, it appears most commonly in the states of Oregon and Washington. Another concentration’s also found in the northeast. It’s found sporadically in places such as New York and Pennsylvania, and the Appalachian Mountains.

In Europe, it’s reportedly present in a total of 6 countries. Those select settings consist of Germany, Norway, Scotland, Sweden, Finland, and France. It’s also known to be present in small, rare groupings in 3 nations in Asia. Those locations consist of the countries of Iran, Korea, and Russia.

Much like many of its many kindred, this creation of Nature and evolution displays decidedly clear and precise preferences regarding its choice of habitat. Though occasionally found in mixed forests, coniferous forests are its favorite setting. It’s especially associated with pine and spruce.

Distinctively, it also maintains a strong preference for highly acidic soils. Generally, the marvel grows best among areas of well-drained, sandy or loamy forest floors. Within these settings and conditions, it’s often found on mossy ground, scattered among either leaf litter or conifer needles.

Elevation plays an important role in its selection of habitat. Populations more common appear at higher elevations or in northern latitudes with high humidity and moderate summer temperatures. In these settings, it’s found in cool, moist environments, typically in temperate to boreal zones.

The Bleeding Tooth Fungus plays both a unique and vitally important role in its forest ecosystems. Its striking appearance forms just part of its fascinating ecology, which involves symbiotic relationships, specialized habitat requirements, and extreme sensitivity to environmental changes.

It forms a symbiotic relatinship with certain trees, mainly the referenced spruce and pine. The fungus wraps around tree roots, extending into the soil. It helps the tree absorb water and nutrients, especially phosphorus and nitrogen. From the tree, it receives sugars from photosynthesis.

Like all fungi, it reproduces via the spreading of spores. It releases these from its toothed underside, with the spores falling to the forest floor. From there, these rely on the actions of wind to spread them to different locations. Spores only thrive in specific conditions, contributing to its rarity.

Dead Man’s Fingers

Dead Man’s Finger’s Facts

• The fifth fungus making its presence known in this article about Fabulous Fungi Around the Globe bears the moniker of the Dead Man’s Fingers.
• The attention-grabbing term it’s typically known by perfectly fits this distinctive fungus. That’s partly due to the fact that it evolved as a saprobic variety, meaning that it thrives among decaying organic matter. Xylaria polymorpha serves as its scientific name.
• The first recorded scientific recognition of this remarkable species occurred in the year 1797. A renowned German mycologist originally registered that acknowledgement under a different name, though. At that time, he initially named the amazing fungus Sphaeria polymorpha.
• While some forms of fungi can be safely consumed, that does not hold true for this particular variety. Although not toxic in any way, or technically inedible, very few people attempt to eat them. That’s largely due to the fact that the outer covering has a hard, wood-like texture.
• Fortunately for this particular member of its Class, its population appears to be both stable and sufficient. It’s also reasonably wide spread in terms of its habitat range. The IUCN therefore currently has no listing for it on the organization’s published Red List of Threatened Species.
• The visually remarkable Dead Man’s Fingers nonetheless does face certain threats to its continued existence as a species, like most forms of life. Given that it thrives most commonly in forests, deforestation naturally poses a great threat. Climate change also threatens it.

Dead Man’s Fingers Physical Description

It must also be pointed out that the intriguing Dead Man’s Fingers tantalizes us with its appearance wholly without relying on sheer physical size. That’s due to the simple fact that it’s not a very large species. In terms of sheer dimensions, it represents a roughly average-sized type of fungus.

It doesn’t grab one’s attention due to its vertical reach. That’s because individual specimens only average between approximately 1.2 – 3.1 in (3 – 8 cm) in height. Meanwhile, it develops a notably club-shaped form. This feature of the wonder also develops as thicker at the base than the top.

This wonder of Nature and evolution does hold an intriguing characteristic, though. Each specimen varies in terms of its stalk. Some possess a single one of these structures, while others produce multiples. Regardless of the number, however, these average 0.4 – 1.2 in (1 – 3 cm) in diameter.

Initially, the outer surface of the fascinating Dead Man’s Fingers appears as either a grayish or white in color. As examples develop, however, this changes to black, with tinges of blue or green. It also develops a covering of a fine powder, that becomes more granulated as the specimen matures.

The most immediately noticeable physical characteristic of the awesome species, though, remains the one that serves as the source of its distiinctive common name. That’s because, when a specimen does develop multiple stalks, these generally bear a very strong resemblance to a skeletal hand.

• Kingdom: Fungi
• Phylum: Ascomycota
• Class: Sordariomycetes
• Order: Xylariales
• Family: Xylariaceae
• Genus: Xylaria
• Species: X. polymorpha

Dead Man’s Fingers Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

Interestingly, the impressive Dead Man’s Fingers evolved as indigenous to a unique area. That actually consists of a relatively large portion of the surface of the earth. Yet, despite this fact, its native zone of habitation appears to be simultaneously surprisingly broad, yet markedly broken.

In one region, this marvel of biological processes developed as native to much of mainland Europe. There, though, the species resides across a large section of the landmass, it typically does so in widely scattered concentrations. For now, it’s most prevalent in the countries of Ireland and Britain.

However, the intrepid fungus also appears in yet another part of the world. More precisely, it additionally grows in many regions of North America. On that continent, most of its population appears in the United States. Accidental importation by man is the most likely cause of its presence.

Wherever this visually distinctive species appears, though, like most fungi, it displays decided preferences regarding its choice of where to reside. To be more precise, populations of the startling Dead Man’s Fingers rarely appear outside of deciduous forests. That’s due to its basic nature.

Being saprobic in that respect, it almost always appears either on or in proximity to the remains of dead trees. Even more specifically, however, these almost always consist of dead beech trees. On the rare occasions that it’s spotted on other species, these always consist of other broadleaf types.

This unique fungus actually plays a vital role within the various local ecosystems it appears in. It consumes the compounds that bind the fibers of the wood together. As a result, the countless numbers of local insect species are able to feast on the rest of the remains of the tree more readily.

Icicle Mushroom

Icicle Mushroom Facts

• Now finding its place among these Fabulous Fungi Around the Globe comes the remarkable species that goes by the named of the Icicle Mushroom.
• Perhaps most notably, this notably distinctive term serves as the common name for any of the numerous fungi placed within the genus Hericium. Regardless of its unusual appearance, though, all known members of this genus remain edible, though tastes differ.
• The general name understandably derives from the unmistakable resemblance of its underlying structure to hanging icicles, or, in the minds of some people, cave-based stalactites. For the moment, though, researchers classify a total of 28 species within this fascinating genus.
• The different members of this interesting genus also bear numerous other, and rather extremely colorful, common names. These distinctive monikers include the terms lion’s mane, the bear’s head, and the monkey’s head, to go along with their respective scientific names.
• The first known scientific description of these visually distinctive mushrooms additionally due to the efforts of the widely respected South African mycologist, Christian Hendrick Persoon. To the ceaseless amazement of some, he actually made this identification in the year 1794.
• The visually intriguing Icicle Mushroom does have some modern commercial uses, though. In some portions of the world, this remarkable fungus can also be found in extensive cultivation as a food source. This usage of the wonder most notably takes place in the country of China.
• Presently, each of the species comprising this genus holds different statuses with the IUCN. These range from Least Concern to Critically Endangered. These appear on the organization’s published Red List of Threatened Species. The major threat to all consists of climate change.

Icicle Mushroom Physical Description

Virtually all forms of the amazing Icicle Mushroom have one thing in common. That’s the fact that they rarely fail to capture the attention of those individuals who encounter them. Between them, however, this appeal occurs due to a variety of reasons, due to their varied physical appearances.

Given the existence of their multiple and greatly different forms, one fact understandably stands out. That’s the truth that one simple description of their forms remains impossible. Nevertheless, certain basic physical characteristics and attributes still remain common and basic to the group.

All known examples of this marvel of Nature and evolution display either branched or unbranched clumps of hanging spines, known as teeth, that grow downward. The majority of other recognized species of fungi develop structures known to science by various terms, such as caps and gills.

Impressively, the overall texture of these spines also changes over the passage of time. When young, this part of the fungus possesses a soft, fleshy texture. As it ages, however, these become tougher and brittle. In color, it’s typically white to creamy, sometimes yellowing with age or when bruised.

The so-called spines of the differing types of Icicle Mushroom also naturally vary in their length. In most cases, these range from 0.4 – 2 in (1 – 5 cm), though some do grow longer. These grow long and slender, as well. Each generally tends to hang vertically, giving a shaggy or bearded appearance.

Obviously, though, some variations in form do occur in the multiple members of this Genus. Some species form a single unbranched mass of spines. Others, meanwhile, manifest a branched coral-like structure with spines projecting outward. Their white spores range from cylindrical to ellipsoid.

• Kingdom: Fungi
• Phylum: Basidiomycota
• Class: Agaricomycetes
• Order: Russulales
• Family: Hericiaceae
• Genus: Hericium

Icicle Mushroom Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

The various forms of the Icicle Mushroom thrive in most of the multiple temperate and tropical portions of the surface of the world. The greatest number of currently known species evolved in three regions of the world, however. This makes it among the most widely spread of all fungi.

More specifically, these intriguingly expansive zones of habitation consist of the widespread continents of Asia, South America, and North America. However, wherever the wonder of evolution appears, its habitat type should come as no great surprise to anyone at all familiar with mushrooms.

That’s because, as remains the case for many of its related species across the globe, this type of fungus also prefers to grow in dark, comparatively moist locations. Most examples commonly, though not exclusively, this variety of mushroom appears on the trunks of dead or dying trees.

When, as remains typical, the always attention-grabbing Icicle Mushroom appears on the trunks of dead trees, a somewhat unexpected pattern manifests itself. That holds true due to a distinctly uncommon occurrence. That’s due to the notably uncommon fact that it usually grows near the top.

For the moment, the precise reason for this frequently displayed preference of placement remains a mystery to researchers. Ongoing research may one day change that, though. This remarkable fungus also plays a key role in most folk medicine throughout Asia, most notably in Japan and China.

While all known varieties remain fully edible for humans, those varieties native to both China and North America generally rank as the most palatable. Yet, the greatest consumption of this particular type of mushroom occurs in China. It still remains rarely consumed outside of this region.

Mycena Chlorophos

Mycena Chlorophos Facts

• Holding down the seventh spot in this article about Fabulous Fungi Around the Globe is the astoundingly evolved variety named Mycena Chlorophos.
• This truly extraordinary variety of fungus remains known to researchers by its relatively unassuming scientific name, as we’ve gine it here. For the moment, the remarkable species has no generally accepted common name. Though certainly not unknown, that’ slightly unusual.
• Only the name of the awesome creation of Nature and evolution fails to impress those who encounter it or learn of it, however. That’s because this fascinating fungus actually represents one of the handful of known related species that actually displays a natural luminescence. 
• The first recorded scientific description of the mind-boggling Mycena Chlorophos occurred in the year 1860. This scientifically noteworthy deed occurred as a result of the combined efforts of the English researcher Miles Berkeley, and the American botanist, Moses Ashley Curtis.
• Most unfortunately, though, scientists still do not possess a significant amount of information about this incredible work of Nature. This regrettable lack of knowledge principally occurs due to the somewhat surprising combination of it short duration and limited territorial range.
• Thankfully, the remarkable form of life appears to be maintaining a population base that’s both stable and sufficient. That pleasant state of affair also seems to hold true throughot the entirety of its native range. The IUCN therefore currently does not show it on its own Red List.
• Nevertheless, the wondrous fungus still faces multiple potential threats to its continued existence as a species. In this, it faces the same dangers as all forms of life on earth today. Most of these perils stem from the actions of man, including habitat loss and climate change.

Mycena Chlorophos Physical Description

Regardless of its other claim to fame, the Mycena Chlorophos represents a comparatively small variety of mushroom. Thankfully, though, Nature often demonstrates that physical size has absolutely no bearing on the impressiveness of its many creations, wherever they happen to appear.

Intriguingly, the size of its thin stalk actually varies quite significantly between individual examples. This typically develops as slender, cylindrical, sometimes slightly curved. In nature, however, this part of the wonder evolved as relatively smooth, mostly hollow, and the same coloration as the cap.

A number of features also appear on the cap itself. Commonly known as gills, these attachments space themselves relatively distant, when compared to related species. The overall basic background coloring of these generally consists of various shades of off-whitish to a pale greenish hue.

The aforementioned cap attains an average width that varies greatly between specimens. In most cases, though, this runs between 0.3 – 1.2 in (8 – 30 mm). The shape of this feature changes over time. It starts convex, but becomes flattened with age, sometimes with a small central depression.

Yet it’s without doubt the color aspects of the remarkable Mycena Chlorophus that usually garner the most attention. The smooth surface of the cap often appears translucent, with one able to see the gills through its margins. These parts of it show pale greenish to yellowish-brown in daylight.

Nature also blessed this wonder with one very special attribute that clearly sets it apart from most its kindred across the globe. All sections of the Mycena display a bright luminescence! While all portions glow a dazzling green in the dark, the cap’s typically the brightest part of the fungus.

• Kingdom: Fungi
• Phylum: Basidiomycota
• Class: Agaricomycetes
• Order: Agaricales
• Family: Mycenaceae
• Genus: Mycena
• Species: M. chlorophos

Mycena Chlorophos Distribution, Habitat and Ecology

The mesmerizing marvel that’s the Mycena Chlorophos grows endemically only in a very limited area of the world. This consists of portions of subtropical Asia. More precisely, these sections include the countries of Taiwan, Polynesia, Japan, Sri Lanka, and the island of Java, in Indonesia.

To the amazement of some who learn of it, though, this mushroom also grows in other, completely different parts of the globe. In fact, these alternate zones include small portions of Brazil and Australia. However, experts believe that humans accidentally transported it to those locations.

Most fortunately for it, the intriguing wonder of evolution also possesses yet another trait working in its favor. Within these widely different ranges, the species appears to have evolved as highly adaptable. As a result of this evolutionary advantage, it may be found in a variety of forest habitats.

Wherever it appears, though, it nonetheless displays a decidedly strong and clear preference for a specific type of environment. That’s due to the fact that it appears almost exclusively among areas composed of woody debris. This most often includes pieces of fallen bark, branches, and twigs.

The bioluminescence for which it remains best known, however, doesn’t last for an extended period. In point of fact, it’s most pronounced when the stunning mushroom first develops. Afterward, the haunting glow fades over a period that typically measures approximately 72 hours.

Phallus Indusiatus

Phallus Indusiatus Facts

• In this spot in this listing of Fabulous Fungi Around the Globe comes the one with perhaps the most startling characteristic, the Phallus Indusiatus.
• The unique term for this intriguing species serves as the scientific name for a fascinating variety of mushroom. It does have several alternate titles by which it’s known, though. These include the distinctive options of the bamboo pith, veiled lady, and even crinoline stinkhorn.
• Most uncommonly, the above-mentioned term actually represent the one typically employed by the scientific community as well. Though not unknown, that’s certainly uncommon. This primarily happens due to various cultural imagery that accompanies the form of the marvel.
• The mushroom received that highly distinctive moniker due to the efforts of Etienne Pierre Ventenat. That highly respected French botanist accomplished the first official recognition of it as a separate and distinct species. He achieved that scientifically noteworthy deed in 1798.
• This creation of Nature and evolution stands out, both in the halls of science and popular culture, due to its possession of one extraordinary, if accidental, attribute. That’s due to the fact that when exposed to its inherent aroma, some women experience spontaneous orgasms!
• Thankfully, the remarkable Phallus Indusiatus appears to be maintaining a base population that’s both stable and sufficient. That pleasant state also seems to hold true throughout the entirety of its natural range. Accordingly, the IUCN does not currently place it on the Red List.
• The wonder should nevertheless be considered as facing several potential threats to its continued existence as a species. In this, it faces the same problems as all species on earth today. Most of these stem from the actions of man, including habitat loss and climate change.

Phallus Indusiatus Physical Description

The startling Phallus Indusiatus never fails to capture the immediate attention and interest of those individuals fortunate enough to encounter it. Despite the presence of the remarkable aroma, it also merits note for other reasons, too. That’s because it also achieves a highly respectable size.

It produces a single stem, called a stipe, that’s quite variable in height between specimens. Developing as tall, cyclindrical, and hollow, this feature usually attains height ranging from between 6 – 16 in (15 – 40 cm). It’s typically white in color and smooth in texture, though sometimes fibrous.

The base of the fungus, known to science as the volva, also stands out for its unique appearance. This encases immature examples of the mushroom as it develops, much like a sac. It’s generally white to off-white in color. It’s also typically cup-shaped at the base when the species first emerges.

The cap of this wonder of Nature develops as conical or bell-shaped, often being white to pale brown. It’s also covered with a dark, sticky, olive-brown spore mass, called a gleba, at the top. This feature of the fungus emits a strong, often unpleasant odor that attracts insects for spore dispersal.

The astonishing Phallus Indusiatus further displays another characteristic that draws the eye of the observer. That’s the presence of a fragile, veil-like structure, named the Indusium. In fact, for most people, this represents one of the most visually distinctive features of this particular mushroom.

This evolved as a delicate, lace-like structure, often considered skirt-like in nature. This hangs suspended from beneath the cap, strongly resembling a delicate net. Usually appearing white, that part of the species extends downward toward the base of the stipe, sometimes reaching the ground.

• Kingdom: Fungi
• Phylum: Basidiomycota
• Class: Agaricomycetes
• Order: Phallales
• Family: Phallaceae
• Genus: Phallus
• Species: P. indusiatus

Phallus Indusiatus Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

The breathtaking Phallus Indusiatus evolved as indigenous to an extraordinarily broad swathe of the surface of the earth. The full extent of that native zone of habitation often surprises many people who learn of it. That’s true since it inhabits portions of an amazing total of four continents.

The greatest known concentrations of this wonder of the world of mycology appear in certain portions of two of these landmasses, however. Those consist of the combination of Africa and South America. It also grows, if in smaller numbers, in parts of Asia, and even Mexico in North America.

Sadly, though, its overall numbers remain relatively low. That’s because, while it currently appears in many of our world’s regions, its density in each of them remains quite thin. It primarily appears in regions of tropical forest, but will grow opportunistically in gardens if the soil is rich enough for it.

It’s also completely edible, and in fact commonly appears in Oriental cuisine. Regrettably, it doesn’t last long once it develops, typically only appearing for about three days. Research also shows that this fungus possesses numerous chemical compounds with valuable medicinal properties, as well.

But, the compound of greatest interest to most researchers remains the one that creates its astounding effect on a portion of women. The sexually stimulating effect for which it’s best known remains inconsistent, though. In studies, only 37.5% of females experienced the amazing result.

In numerous lab tests, the Phallus Indusiatus also required strong concentrations. With smaller dosages, though it failed to create the controversial effect, it did have mange to create elevated heart rates. Men, meanwhile, found the aroma unpleasant, and experienced no physiological effects.

Amethyst Deceiver

Amethyst Deceiver Facts

• The ninth creation of Nature appearing in this compendium of Fabulous Fungi Around the Globe is the dazzling Amethyst Deceiver.
• The picturesque and descriptive term typically aplied to it serves as the generally accepted common name for a remarkable variety of mushroom. Presently, the fungus does have at least one other general title by which it’s known, though. That’s the term of amethyst laccaria.
• Within the scientific community, however, it’s possibly much better known by its purely technical designation. Like most such tags, though, that one’s somewhat difficult for the layperson to pronounce. That’s because it currently holds the epithet Laccaria amethystina.
• Originally, this gorgeous form of life held a different, but quite similar epithet. The highly respected British botantist William Hudson achieved the first recognition of it as a separate and distinct species. He actually achieved that scientifically noteworthy deed in the year 1778.
• At that time, he applied the name Agaricus amethystinus. In the years since that time, however, it’s been given many different names, and once even place within a different Genus. Eventually, the Bristish botanists William Hudson and Mordecai Cooke gave it the one it holds now.
• Fortunately, the amazing Amethyst Deceiver appears to be maintaining a population base that’s both stable and sufficient. This pleasant state also seems to hold true throughout the entirety of its range. The IUCN therefore presently does not show it on the organization’s Red List.
• It nevertheless should still be considered as facing numerous threats to its continued existence as a species. Like all forms of life on earth today, the majority of dangers it faces stem from the actions of humans. These perils include the problems of habitat loss and climate change.

Amethyst Deceiver Physical Description

The magnificent Amethyst Deceiver rarely fails to capture the interest and attention of those individuals fortunate enough to encounter it. Unlike some of its many kin around the world, though, it does not do so due to physical size. In that respect, it’s an average-sized variety of mushroom.

The stem of this wonder develops as quite short in nature. It’s also hollow, fibrous, and relatively tough to the touch. In terms of height, this aspect of the fungus attains an average stretch of 0.25 – 2.75 in (0.6 – 7cm). It’s also quite thin, attaining a mean thickness of 0.16 – 0.25 in (0.1 – 0.7 cm).

The cap itself, however, naturally grows to a larger size than this part of the mushroom. As a general principle, it reaches up to 2.25 in (6 cm) in diameter, though most stay slightly smaller. When this first develops, it has a convex shape, which slowly flattens, with a central depression developing.

Without doubt, though, it’s the stunning color of the aptly-named Amethyst Deceiver that typically garners the most attention from its viewers. The cap and stem present the same scheme, consisting of deep purplish lilac shade, though this dazzling appears fades somewhat upon drying out. 

The great majority of individual specimens of this awesome fungus also display a fascinating pattern of natural striations. These features most commonly appear along the edges of the cap, and display an even paler shade than the remainder. Its interior flesh boasts neither a discernible scent or color.

• Kingdom: Fungi
• Phylum: Basidiomycota
• Class: Agaricomycetes
• Order: Agaricales
• Family: Hydnangiaceae
• Genus: Laccaria
• Species: L. amethystina

Amethyst Deceiver Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

Quite fortunately, the Amethyst Deceiver evolved as native to a surprisingly wide swathe of the world. In point of fact, it appears in specific regions of Asia, Europe, North America, and South America. The vast majority of populations, though, most often appear in northern regions.

It also shows a remarkable versatility in terms of the habitats that it chooses to inhabit. That’s due to the fact that it appears in both deciduous and coniferous forests. The species, does, though, display a pronounced preference for temperate zones within this same geographical range.

Even more amazingly, a minor mystery presently exists regarding its most common choice of habitat. For reasons that continue to mystify researchers, most observed specimens appear in the immediate vicinity of only certain types of trees. These species consist of both beech and oak trees.

As with all recognized species mushroom, the Amethyst Deceiver reproduces via spores. In its specific case, though, these develop as relatively large in size. It presently remains undetermined if this fact accounts for its tendency to appear only singly or in small groupings in any one location.

Though not commonly consumed by humans, since most consider its flesh to be tasteless, it nonetheless remains fully edible, though only technically. This slightly confusing state exists due to a somewhat surprising fact. Most often, specimens actually qualify as mildly toxic in nature.

Intriguingly, its own genetic structure actually contains no known toxic compounds. However, it slowly evolved as extremely sensitive to any naturally occurring arsenic in the soil in which it appears. When this compound’s present, the fungus absorbs it into its flesh, rendering it toxic, too.

Basket Stinkhorn

Basket Stinkhorn Facts

• Next up in this listing of Fabulous Fungi Around the Globe comes the remarkable product of Nature known as the Basket Stinkhorn.
• This visually distinctive product of Nature and evolution most often goes by the equally unusual common name we’re using for it. It does have several other general titles it’s known by, though. These tags include such terms as the latticed stinkhorn and red cage.
• Inside of the scientific community, however, it’s possibly significantly better known by its technical designation. Fortunately, that’s a much simpler one for the layperson to pronounce than most. That’s because the fungus holds the official moniker of Clathrus ruber.
• This remarkable form of life received that tag originally due to the efforts of Pier Antonio Micheli. The noted Italian botanist made the first official recognition of it as a separate and distinct species. That scientifically noteworthy achievement occurred in the year 1729.
• Credit for its naming becomes somewhat murky, though, later. That confusion happens due to the fact that, in 1801, the South African mycologist, Christian Hendrik Persoon assigned it to a new group of fungi. Presiding bodies thus now assign dual credit for its designation.
• Thankfully, the amazing Basket Stinkhorn appears to be maintaining a population base that’s both stable and sufficient. This pleasant state also seems to hold true throughout its entire range. The IUCN thus does not currently show it on its Red List of Threatened Species.
• The wonder of Nature nevertheless still faces multiple potential threats to its continued existence as a species, at least. Like all forms of life on earth today, most of these perils stem from the actions of man. They include the dangers posed by habitat loss and climate change.

Basket Stinkhorn Physical Description

The fabulous Basket Stinkhorn typically draws the attention of most individuals fortunate to encounter it. Like many of its relatives around the world, however, it does so due more to its eye-catching appearance than sheer physical size. That’s because it’s not an overly large type of fungus.

The fruiting body of this marvel typically measures somewhere between 2 – 4 in (5 to 10 cm) in diameter. When this part of it first emerges, though, it’s usually enclosed in a somewhat whitish, egg-shaped structure known as a volva. This splits open to reveal the mature lattice structure.

The volva itself represents the basal structure from which that fruiting body eventually emerges. That part of the structure, though, initially appears as egg-shaped. It’s also a white to pale gray, and gelatinous. As that same fruiting body expands, the volva ruptures and remains at the base.

Distinguishing itself in yet another manner, however, this wonder of Nature does not have a distinct stem, known as a stipe, like many other fungi. Instead, the lattice structure arises directly from the volva or from the ground. This helps to further augment its remarkable physical appearance.

It’s the aforementioned fruiting body of the Basket Stinkhorn, though, that’s its most truly striking feature. This consists of a hollow, spherical or oval structure resembling a lattice or cage. This lattice structure’s made up of interconnected, spongy, and porous red or orange-red branches.

Overall, the color of this intriguing creation of natural processes frequently varies. This pattern of coloration often ranges from bright red to orange-red, often fading to a lighter pink or orange as it ages. The inner surface of the lattice also often shows slightly paler than the outer surface.

• Kingdom: Fungi
• Phylum: Basidiomycota
• Class: Agaricomycetes
• Order: Phallales
• Family: Phallaceae
• Genus: Clathrus
• Species: C. ruber

Basket Stinkhorn Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

The intrepid Basket Stinkhorn evolved as indigenous to an impressively broad expanse of the surface of the globe. The full extent of that zone of habitation, in fact, might surprise some people. That’s because it’s native to many parts of Europe, Northern Africa, and southwestern Asia.

Due to the actions of mankind, though, the amazing fungus now appears in regions outside of this original territorial range. It’s now been naturalize in portions of North America. There, it’s been seen in California, in the United States, as well as a few locations in the country of Mexico.

Following a pattern prevalent among fungi, this wonder of evolution displays an extremely high degree of flexibility regarding its choice of habitat type. It’s therefore found in a remarkably wide range of ecosystems. A few specific types of these nevertheless do typically tend to predominate.

It’s quite commonly found in such locations as lawns, gardens, and parks. It prefers locations where there’s ample organic matter for decomposition. It additionally typically grows on the ground amidst grass, humus, mulch, wood chips, woody debris, or decomposing organic material.

Yet, this incredible product of evolution also frequently thrives well in leaf litter on garden soil and woodchip garden mulches. These substrates offer the species a rich supply of decaying plant material, which remains essential for the saprobic lifestyle that Nature provided it with.

Given the nature of that highly specific form of evolved lifestyle, the Basket Stinkhorn, again like many others of its kind across the globe, plays an interesting and significant role within its ecosystem. That’s due to the fact that the distinctive fungus feeds on decaying organic material.

This role’s highly crucial, as the wonder helps decompose dead plants, contributing to nutrient cycling within its habitat. By breaking down woody debris, leaf litter, and other organic materials, it helps convert these into simple compounds that enrich the soil and support plant growth​.

Intriguingly, it also has a unique strategy for the dispersal of its spores. The fully mature fruiting body emits a foul odor that mimics rotting flesh, which attracts flies and other insects. These insects feed on the spore-laden slime and subsequently help disperse the spores over a wider area.

Scarlet Elf Cup

Scarlet Elf Cup Facts

• The eleventh entry into this article about these Fabulous Fungi Around the Globe bears the intriguing name of the Scarlet Elf Cup.
• This intriguing product of Nature and evolution is best known by the descriptive common name the aplied to it herein for obvious reasons. The fungus does, however, have several other general titles. These terms include Moss Cup, Fairies Baths, and simply Scarlet Cup.
• Within the scientific world, though, it’s perhaps much better known by its purely technical moniker. Unfortunately, that’s an extremely difficult term for the layperson to pronounce. That’s because the unique fungus holds the official epithet of Sarcoscypha coccinea.
• It received that hard to utter designation due to the efforts of Jean Baptiste Émil Lambotte. The respected Belgian mycologist applied the name to this natural marvel that it holds today. He did so in the year 1889. But, this moniker wasn’t the original name of the unique species.
• The credit for that achievement goes to the Italian naturalist Giovanni Antonio Scopoli. This highly noted researcher accomplished the first recognition of it as a separate and distinct species, though he applied a different tag. This scientifically noteworthy deed occurred in 1772.
• Thankfully, the remarkable Scarlet Elf Cup continues to maintain a population base that’s both stable and sufficient. That pleasant state also seems to hold true throughout the entirety of its range. the IUCN therefore currently does not show it on the Red List of Threatened Species.
• The wonder nevertheless should still be considered as facing the same potential threats to its continued existence as all species on earth today. Like the rest of us, most of those dangers stem from the actions of man, and include the perils of habitat loss and climate change.

Scarlet Elf Cup Physical Description

The stunning Scarlet Elf Cup dazzles those individuals fortunate enough to encounter this amazing marvel of Nature. The fabulous fungi typically does so, however, due more to its brilliant hue than its sheer size. That’s true since it actually ranks as a comparatively small variety of mushroom.

Its form varies in nature somewhat, though, regarding the structure known as its stem. Most specimens lack a distinct version of such a feature, yet a few exceptions do manifest one. Those examples that do produce this structure, however, typically show a relatively short, stubby version.

Younger examples of this visually intriguing fungus generally have a generally spherical shape, while, mature specimens display a roughly cup-shaped form. This also tends to be comparatively shallow in nature. Adding to its visual appeal comes the fact that it also possesses rolled-up edges.

Despite its numerous wonders, however, it’s undeniably a small species of mushroom. It’s also quite variable in this respect. The fruiting bodies usually range in width from about 04. 2.4 in (1 – 6 cm). Though exceptional examples sometimes do occur, they rarely exceed this by very much.

The most striking feature of the stunning Scarlet Elf Cup remains its vibrant red color, though. The outer surface of the fungus usually shows a deep scarlet or crimson hue, while the inner surface frequently varies from a paler pinkish-red to a deeper red. Other variants do exist, including orange.

The surface often appears extremely smooth when young, becoming slightly wrinkled with age, with the texture feeling rubbery. Inside, you’ll find a smooth, shiny surface that contrasts sharply with the outer texture. This sometimes has a more translucent appearance compared to the outer layer.

• Kingdom: Fungi
• Phylum: Ascomycota
• Class: Pezizomycetes
• Order: Pezizales
• Family: Sarcoscyphaceae
• Genus: Sarcoscypha
• Species: S. coccinea

Scarlet Elf Cup Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

The Scarlet Elf Cup evolved as native to an extraordinarily broad swathe of the surface of the earth. In fact, the full extent of that zone of habitation covers much of the Northern Hemisphere. The marvel appears in Africa, Asia, Europe, North and South America, and even Australia.

In North America, it’s especially common in the eastern United States, where it’s found in states such as Connecticut, Virginia, Maryland, and others. It’s also in the midwest and western sections, in states like Ohio, Michigan, Oregon, and Washington. It appears in the nation of Canada, too.

Meanwhile, in Europe, the marvel of Nature remains equally widespread. Many countries such as the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Scandinavia are known to have substantial populations of this fungus present. In Asia, it’s also extremely common on the island country of Japan.

This remarkable creation of evolutionary processes additionally displays decidedly clear and strong preferences regarding its choice of habitat. Like all of its countless relatives located around the world, this amazing fungus thrives best in comparatively moist or humid environments.

Because of this, it’s commonly found either in areas with ample quantities of rainfall or where there’s frequent moisture, such as near streams, in damp woodlands, or in areas with high humidity levels. In these same areas, it’s also typically located under the canopy of trees, in the shade.

The impressive Scarlet Elf Cup evolved as a saprophytic fungus, meaning it obtains its nutrients by decomposing dead organic matter. It primarily grows on decaying hardwood logs, branches, or stumps. It’s often found on fallen or rotting wood, especially in advanced stages of decay.

Its fruiting bodies generally appear in late winter to early spring, often coinciding with periods of cooler temperatures and moisture. The red or orange cup-shaped structures develop to release its spores, which it disperses by various means, primarily including wind, rain, and animal activity.

Rosy Veincap

Rosy Veincap Facts

• Next up in this collection of Fabulous Fungi Around the Globe we present you with the remarkable species named the Rosy Veincap.
• This remarkable variety of fungus most frequently goes by the unique, yet highly descriptive, common name across its range. It does have other, less often used titles it’s known by, though. Those include such interesting terms as wrinkled peach and netted rhodotus.
• Within scientific circles, however, it’s referred to by its purely technical name. Thankfully for the layperson, that’s a comparatively simple term, at least as such go. That’s because this product of evolution and Nature bears the official moniker of Rhodotus palmatus.
• The distinctive mushroom received its original name due to the efforts of Jean Baptiste Francois Pierre Bulliard. The noted French botanist recorded the first acknowledgement of it as a separate and distinct species. He managed this scientifically noteworthy deed in 1785.
• However, later researchers routinely reclassified it a number of different times. Experts eventually rocognized it as the sole currently known member of the genus Rhodotus. The French mycologist, René Maire, most recently placed this marvelous species there in 1926.
• Sadly, though, the gorgeous Rosy Veincap appears to be declining rapidly in numbers. That unfortunate trend further seems to hold true throughout the entirety of its known range. The IUCN therefore currently lists it as Near Threatened on its Red List of Threatened Species
• This wonder of Nature presently faces several threats to its continued existence as a species. For the moment, the leading cause of its decline appears to be habitat degradation and outright loss. Understandably, it also now finds itself at risk due to the perils of climate change.

Rosy Veincap Physical Description

The impressive fungi known as the Rosy Veincap captures the attention of most people who encounter it. It does not do so due to sheer physical size, though. That’s true since this marvel of evolution ranks as approximately average-sized for a mushroom. But Nature made up for that.

Nevertheless, its dimensions do bear noting, at least. The stem of this marvel typically develops as between 0.6 – 1.2 in (1.5 – 3 cm) in height. That same part of the structure generally attains a width of 0.16 – 0.24 in (0.4 – 0.6 cm) in thickness. It’s also usually much thicker closer to the base.

The cap of the beautiful product of Nature also achieves fully respectable dimensions. This portion of the fungus begins formation with a somewhat convex shape. As the individual ages, though, this generally flattens out. It attains an average diameter ranging from 0.8 – 2.4 in (2 – 6 cm).

This same structure of the Rosy Veincap displays yet another visually appealing characteristic, as well. These features most commonly roll inward, creating an intriguing pattern. The surface of that cap further tends to develop a network of lightly colored structures called ridges or veins.

It also possesses a texture best described as relatively gelatinous in nature. Its internal flesh develops as relatively firm, though rubbery, as well as light pink in color. The exterior color varies depending on lighting conditions, but usually ranges from red to pink to a salmon-orange.

• Kingdom: Fungi
• Phylum: Basidiomycota
• Class: Agaricomycetes
• Order: Agaricales
• Family: Physalacriaceae
• Genus: Rhodotus
• Species: R. palmatus

Rosy Veincap Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

Fortunately for it, the Rosy Veincap evolved as native to an extremely wide range of the surface of the earth. In fact, the nature and extent of that range may surprise many people. Examples appear in Europe, Asia, part of Africa, and even North America. That’s a truly broad territorial reach.

In Africa, the amazing species only appears in the northern sections of the continent. In North America, it’s been spotted in the eastern sections of both Canada and the United States. It’s presently unknown, though, if it ever appeared anywhere outside this extensive zone of habitation.

The intrepid species has shown itself to possess a reasonaably moderate degree of flexibility in its choice of habitat types. As a general principle, though, it seems to prefer regions that are flooded on a periodic basis. It further prefers these regions to receive only limited amounts of sunlight.

Like many related species around the world, this most frequently consists of areas shaded by forest canopies. The fungi most often grows in small clusters on rotting hardwood trees. While it lives on many trees, it does seem to display a preference for maple, basswood, and especially elm.

Like all fungi, the fascinating Rosy Veincap reproduces via spores. In its specific case, these microscopic structures have a roughly spherical shape. Again following a pattern common to its kind, this wonder releases those spores at various times of the day, depending on conditions.

Though not toxic to humans, it’s generally considered inedible. The fungal marvel does, however, show moderate promise in medical research. A recent research study indicated that it displayed mild to moderate antibacterial effects against several tested bacteria strains in the laboratory.

Fabulous Fungi Around the Globe

We truly hope that each of you greatly enjoyed reading, and hopefully learning from, this article we’ver created about these Fabulous Fungi Around the Globe. It’s also our sincere hope that doing so has served to leave you with either a new or renewed appreciation for such wonders of Nature.

Unfortunately, many other such species located around the world now find themselves facing serious threats to their continued existence. Many of those numerous dangers, in fact, stem from the actions of mankind. We must each do everything that we can to protect and preserve them all.

Check out our other articles on 5 Captivating Plants of Canada, 3 Spectacular Marvels of Spain, 7 Awesome Invertebrates of Australia, 6 Prominent Animals of Peru, The Mighty Tornado