1 year ago
75
Why some mushrooms are bioluminescent remains uncertain, but a study using LED lights adds to the evidence they attract insects that help the fungus disperse its spores
Life 24 January 2023Bioluminescent ghost fungus in Queensland, Australia Juergen Freund/naturepl.com
Why do some mushrooms glow in the dark? A study involving real bioluminescent mushrooms and fake ones with LED lights has added to the evidence that the glow attracts insects such as flies.
“The light serves to attract potential spore dispersers,” says Catherine Adams at the University of California, Berkeley. These animals probably eat some of the spores, she says, but as mushrooms produce billions of spores, they can sacrifice some to help spread others more widely.
Very few studies have tried to test why …
No commitment, cancel anytime*
Offer ends 14th March 2023. *Cancel anytime within 14 days of payment to receive a refund on unserved issues.
Existing subscribers, please log in with your email address to link your account access.
Inclusive of applicable taxes (VAT)
English (US)