The glow-in-the-dark mushroom Neonothopanus gardneri is one of the biggest and brightest of glowing fungi. The Brazilian forest fungi put on a light show to attract insects that will spread their spores, thereby helping the fungus colonize new habitats. The fungi’s glow follows a daily rhythm, lighting up only when it’s dark, presumably helping them to save energy.
The scientists said they are interested in identifying the genes responsible for the bioluminescence in fungi and exploring their interaction with the circadian clock that controls them. They are also using infrared cameras to watch the interaction between Neonothopanus gardneri and arthropods, especially larger ones, more closely.
“The findings are not only cool, they are also important in understanding how mushrooms are dispersed in the environment,” the scientists said.
“That’s key because fungi such as Neonothopanus gardneri play an important role in the forest ecosystem.”
Picture Credit : Google
