In the forests of Kasaragod, researchers have discovered a rare species of bioluminescent mushrooms that emit a brilliant, otherworldly green light in the darkness of night, according to a report by ONmanorama.
These fascinating fungi, scientifically known as Filoboletus manipularis, are capable of producing their own light through a biochemical process. They were found after a micro-fungal survey was conducted jointly by the Kasaragod division of the Kerala Forest and Wildlife Department and the Mushrooms of India Community in the Ranipuram forest.
Kasaragod Divisional forest officer K Ashraf, Dr Jinu Muraleedharan, Dr Santhosh Kumar Kookal, KM Anoop, Sachin Pai and Poorna Sajna were part of the survey team involving scientists and researchers.
According to ONmanorama, over 50 different species of mushrooms were found during the survey, with the bioluminescent mushrooms being the most important discovery. However, scientists have deemed them “not fit for consumption”.