Colus Hirudinosus (Rare Fungus)
Colus hirudinosus
I was sent this photo of a colus hirudinosus, a rare fungus. This specimen was found near Broke, NSW, and appeared shortly after rain. It is a member of the stinkhorn family, and produces a strong fetid odor that attracts flies and other insects.
Isn’t this the most bizarre thing you have ever seen?
More Information:
- C. Hirudinosus at Mushroom Expert
- Colus Hirudinosus Group at Fungimap
- Stinkhorns, Puffballs & Birds Nest Fungi at Australian National Botanic Gardens
What bizzare plants have you discovered in your garden?
April 15th, 2007
the most unusual fungi we have seen was a flouresent ball shaped fungi which really glowed in the dark it was awesome to see. we live on the north coast of NSW. it was attached to some wooden stepping blocks in a very shaded moist area of the garden.
May 10th, 2007
I also live on the north coast NSW and have had regular flowering of this fungi over the past 12-18 months. It arrived in my garden via tea tree mulch delivered from a local supplier. It smells just like a dead rat and only flowers following rain (interestingly, not tap watering). Complete removal of the mulch has had only partial success presumably due to spoor contamination. Revolting but fascinating and unfortunately it was in a garden right at my front door entrance – charming!
May 18th, 2007
having lived in Darwin NT for some considerable time, came accross a dark brown/black fungi which was glossy, slimy, very spongy to the touch – it appeared to literally devour anything in its path – even my dogs were not impressed.. not too pungent, yet quite a strong humus smell… rotton! especially post monsoons when the humidity soared.