30 Fungi Factoids

The "hairy" appearance of some mushrooms, such as the shaggy mane (Coprinus comatus), is due to the rapid growth of their caps, which can cause them to shed dark spores that cover the rest of the fruiting body. (Source: The Spruce)

Some mushrooms, such as the lion's mane (Hericium erinaceus), have been shown to have neuroprotective properties and may even help stimulate the growth of new brain cells. (Source: Healthline)

The phallus-shaped stinkhorn mushroom (Phallus impudicus) has been used in traditional medicine as an aphrodisiac due to its resemblance to the male reproductive organ. (Source: ScienceDirect)

Some species of fungi can glow in response to different stimuli, such as touch or changes in temperature, creating a beautiful "biological light show." (Source: Science News)

The term "toadstool" is not a scientific term but is often used to refer to poisonous or inedible mushrooms. (Source: Britannica)

Some species of fungi can change the behavior of their host insects, causing them to climb to a higher location, where they are more likely to be eaten by predators and help spread the fungus's spores. (Source: Live Science)

The term "mycology" comes from the Greek word "mykes," which means "fungus." (Source: Encyclopædia Britannica)

Some mushrooms, such as the reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), have been used in traditional medicine to help improve liver function and reduce inflammation. (Source: Verywell Health)

The world's first antibiotic, penicillin, was derived from a type of mold called Penicillium. (Source: American Chemical Society)

Some species of fungi can produce biofuels, such as ethanol and butanol, which could potentially be used as alternative sources of energy. (Source: Science Daily)

The amatoxins found in some mushrooms, such as the death cap (Amanita phalloides), can cause severe liver and kidney damage and are responsible for most cases of mushroom poisoning fatalities. (Source: Medical News Today)

The spores of some fungi can be dispersed over long distances by the wind, making them an important component of global biogeochemical cycles. (Source: The University of Sydney)

Some species of fungi can produce antibiotics that are effective against bacteria, such as the MRSA "superbug," that are resistant to other types of antibiotics. (Source: The Guardian)

Some mushrooms, such as the turkey tail (Trametes versicolor), have been shown to have immune-boosting properties and may even help fight cancer. (Source: Harvard Health Publishing)

The process of cultivating mushrooms for food and other uses, known as "fungiculture," has been practiced for thousands of years and is still an important industry today. (Source: Food Tank)

Some mushrooms, such as the fly agaric (Amanita muscaria), have psychoactive properties and have been used in traditional shamanic practices for thousands of years. (Source: The New York Times)

Fungi were some of the first organisms to colonize land, with some species estimated to be over a billion years old. (Source: Encyclopædia Britannica)

The cap of the green-spored parasol (Chlorophyllum molybdites) can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and is commonly mistaken for the edible meadow mushroom (Agaricus campestris). (Source: NPR)

Some mushrooms, such as the chaga (Inonotus obliquus), have been used in traditional medicine to help improve the immune system and fight infections. (Source: Healthline)

The "bleeding tooth fungus" (Hydnellum peckii) secretes a red fluid that resembles blood, earning it the nickname "the devil's tooth." (Source: Atlas Obscura)

The mycelium, or "root system," of a fungus can extend for miles underground and can communicate with other organisms, such as trees, through a network of thread-like structures called hyphae. (Source: Smithsonian Magazine)

Some mushrooms, such as the king trumpet (Pleurotus eryngii), have a meaty texture and can be used as a vegetarian substitute for meat in dishes. (Source: The Spruce Eats)

The caterpillar fungus (Ophiocordyceps sinensis) is a parasitic fungus that infects caterpillars and is highly valued in traditional Chinese medicine for its alleged aphrodisiac properties. (Source: CNN)

Some species of fungi can produce hallucinogenic compounds, such as psilocybin, which is found in "magic mushrooms" (Psilocybe spp.). (Source: Scientific American)

The honeycomb coral mushroom (Morchella deliciosa) has a distinctive honeycomb-like appearance and is considered a delicacy in many cultures. (Source: The Guardian)

Some species of fungi can decompose organic matter, such as dead trees and other plant material, and help recycle nutrients back into the ecosystem. (Source: ScienceDirect)

The "lattice stinkhorn" (Clathrus archeri) is a mushroom that resembles a tiny, red cage and emits a strong, foul odor to attract flies for spore dispersal. (Source: Britannica)

Some mushrooms, such as the lion's mane (Hericium erinaceus), are being studied for their potential to help treat conditions such as anxiety and depression. (Source: Healthline)

The matsutake mushroom (Tricholoma matsutake) is highly prized in Japan and can sell for over $1,000 per kilogram due to its rarity and unique flavor. (Source: NPR)

Some species of fungi, such as the puffball mushroom (Calvatia gigantea), can release millions of spores in a single puff. (Source: Live Science)