Mycelium Magic #2: Illuminate Your Mind with Bioluminescent Fungi"
Symphony of Light in the Undergrowth: The Science, Ecology, and Human Fascination with Bioluminescent Fungi
Hello there, glow-getters and fungi-fanatics!
Welcome to the first issue of our weekly exploration into the fascinating world of fungi. As I continue to learn and discover more about mycology, I'm excited to share my findings with you. Each week, I'll delve into a unique topic and also provide you with a curated list of intriguing resources that I've encountered throughout my journey. My goal is to spark curiosity, share knowledge, and cultivate a community where we can learn and grow together. So, without further ado, let's jump into this week's topic!
Glow in the Dark: The Science of Bioluminescent Fungi
I. Introduction
Can you imagine walking through a forest in the pitch black of night, only to stumble upon an ethereal glow emanating from the undergrowth? You bend down to investigate, and lo and behold, you're greeted by a tiny mushroom, casting a mesmerizing greenish light, like a tiny, earthbound star. Sounds like a scene from a fairy tale, doesn't it? But this isn't a whimsical fiction spun by your friendly neighbourhood mycologist. No, my friends, we're stepping into the reality of bioluminescent fungi, the glowing wonders of the mycological world!
Bioluminescent fungi, or as I like to call them - nature's little night-lights - have intrigued scientists, artists, and fungi enthusiasts for centuries. They seem to blur the line between the real and the fantastical, adding a dash of magic to our understanding of fungi.
The first time I got really interested in bioluminescence was during a magical night in the forest when I saw fireflies for the first time. I was on an LSD trip – which, fun fact, is a psychedelic drug derived from ergot, a type of fungus, or mold to be exact. Seeing those fireflies with their glowing butts was one of the most enchanting experiences of my life. When I later found out about mushrooms that could light up just like those fireflies, my curiosity went through the roof!
How does this enchanting spectacle come about? What's the reason behind their glow? Is it a fungi party trick, or does it serve a deeper purpose? I’m on the mission to dig deeper and share my findings with you friends!
Over the course of this article, we'll unravel the secrets behind these natural lanterns. From the mesmerizing mechanics of their glow, to their ecological purpose, and tips on where to find these glowing wonders - we've got an exciting journey ahead! So, buckle up, adjust your night-vision goggles, and let's delve into the luminous world of bioluminescent fungi!
II. What is Bioluminescence?
Bioluminescence in fungi, much like in fireflies, is the result of a chemical reaction. This reaction involves a substance called luciferin (the light emitter), an enzyme called luciferase (the catalyst), and oxygen. When these elements interact, they produce energy in the form of light. But unlike our man-made lights, this chemical reaction produces no heat, making it a form of 'cold light'.
Mushrooms and fireflies aren't the only party-throwers in the natural world. Our planet is teeming with other bioluminescent organisms. For example, did you know there are bacteria that not only glow but also produce electricity? Geobacter is an incredible bacterium that can illuminate and decontaminate the soil. A good friend and inspiring artist Samira Benini Allaouat, who's developing an innovative project called "Geo-Llum" by using Geobacter for the art installation, more info here
Meet the Geobacter, an incredible bacterium that can illuminate and decontaminate the soil.
III. Glowing fungi
Now that we've uncovered the mesmerizing world of bioluminescence, let's turn our attention to the fungi that possess this incredible ability. There are several types of fungi known to emit a captivating glow. There are several types of fungi known to emit a captivating glow. These include the famous Jack O'Lantern mushroom (Omphalotus olearius), the Ghost Fungus (Omphalotus piriformis), and the intriguingly named Devil's Cigar (Chorioactis geaster)
When it comes to their preferred habitats, these bioluminescent fungi often make their homes in the dark recesses of forests, thriving in damp and decaying organic matter. They create their own magical light shows amidst the leaf litter, fallen logs, and decaying tree stumps. These captivating fungi have been found in various locations around the world, including some mushroom-rich places in Spain such as the forests of Catalonia (Montseny national park, El Bages) as well as the ancient woodlands of the Basque Country.
So, the next time you find yourself wandering through these mystical landscapes, keep your eyes peeled for these fungal illuminators, painting nature's canvas with their radiant glow.
IV. Theories
Attraction seekers:
First up, there's this idea that our glow-in-the-dark fungi are like little forest lighthouses, attracting insects and other small creatures. As these tiny explorers are drawn to the lights, they get a dusting of the mushroom's spores. And when they wander off, they help to spread those spores far and wide, giving the fungi a little hand (or leg!) in reproduction and survival 1 2.
Just picture that, a tiny bug rave party happening right under our noses! But before you start imagining glowing mushrooms winking at each other across the forest floor, let me clarify – this glow isn't about attracting other fungi for mating. That's a totally different story, and one we'll dive into in a future article
Stay away from me:
Next, there's the theory that glowing fungi are like nature's neon 'Do Not Disturb' sign. The glow could be a warning to ward off potential predators or parasites that might be eyeing up the fungi as a potential snack or home. It's as if the fungi are saying, "Hey, I might not taste so good, better leave me alone"3. But this is still just a theory, so don't go telling your friends that glowing mushrooms are nature's version of a sour candy just yet!
Metabolic Byproduct, a.k.a Glowing poop
Lastly, some folks think the glow is just a funky side effect of the fungi doing its usual metabolic thing. The light might be a byproduct of oxidative reactions going on inside the fungi. So it's like the fungi are just chilling, doing their thing, and accidentally leaving the lights on 4. It's a cool thought, isn't it? Even something that seems like a waste can have a purpose in the grand scheme of things.
V. Human Uses and Interest
Beyond their mesmerizing glow, bioluminescent fungi have also held historical and cultural significance throughout the ages. These captivating organisms have ignited the imagination of people and inspired folklore and tales of enchantment. They have been depicted in ancient artwork and have become symbols of mystical realms and hidden treasures.
Here are a few examples:
Foxfire: In many cultures, bioluminescent fungi were associated with the mythical creature known as the fox. According to folklore, foxes would rub their tails against these glowing fungi, creating magical fire that would light their way through the night. [5]
Fairy Lights: In European folklore, bioluminescent fungi were often attributed to fairies or woodland spirits. They were believed to create mystical lights that guided lost travelers through forests or led them to hidden treasures. [6]
Will-o'-the-Wisps: Bioluminescent fungi have been linked to the mysterious phenomenon of will-o'-the-wisps. These flickering lights, often seen over marshy areas or in dense forests, were thought to be mischievous spirits or the spirits of the deceased, luring unsuspecting wanderers astray. [7]
Ghost Mushrooms: The Ghost Fungus (Omphalotus nidiformis), found in Australia, has its own folklore. Aboriginal legends describe these glowing mushrooms as the spirits of the departed, providing illumination for their journey to the afterlife. [8]
While we've touched on the theories behind their glow and the potential ecological roles they play, the true secrets of bioluminescent fungi are still unfolding. They continue to captivate scientists, artists, and nature enthusiasts alike, pushing the boundaries of our understanding.
So, let's embrace the mystery and beauty of these glowing wonders and keep our eyes open for more discoveries in the world of mycology. Stay tuned for future newsletters, as we delve further into the fascinating realm of fungi and uncover new wonders along the way.
References
[1] "Glowing Mushrooms: Fungi's bioluminescent 'foxfire' is a side effect of digestion," by Dennis Desjardin, Cassius Stevani, and Brian Perry, The Conversation, March 23, 2021. Link
[2]"Glowing Mushrooms: Scientists Discover the Fungal Truth Behind the Glow," by Dennis Desjardin, Cassius Stevani, and Brian Perry, Live Science, March 23, 2021. Link
[5] Wigginton, Eliot. (1972). The Foxfire Book: Hog Dressing; Log Cabin Building; Mountain Crafts and Foods; Planting by the Signs; Snake Lore, Hunting Tales, Faith Healing. Anchor Books. p. 154-159
[6] Tompkins, Peter, & Bird, Christopher. (1973). The Secret Life of Plants. p. 12-29.
[7] Laura A. S. McCormick Myths and Mythologies: A Reader: 2009, p. 54-58
[8] Reed, A. W. (1999). Aboriginal Myths, Legends & Fables. London: Reed New Holland p. 43-45
Before we part ways, here's a curated list of resources I stumbled upon during my fungal adventures this week.
Mycology 101 course from the Odin (youtube video)
Applied mycology ep.2 Community Mycology in the Catskills (podcast)
CIIS Public Programs Paul Stamets: On Psilocybin Mushrooms and the Mycology of Consciousness from (podcast)