For two weeks fungi fans have been treated to glow-in-the-dark mushrooms in the state’s North.
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The chemical reaction that causes the bioluminescence is the same phenomenon that occurs inside glow worms.
While research into the omphalotus nidiformis’ bioluminescent properties is ongoing, there are theories the glow attracts insects.
The insects go on to disperse the fungi’s spores, aiding in propagation.
Photographer Charlie Price said there is normally a big burst of ghost fungi after rain.
“Two weeks ago there was quite a flush in the Launceston area,” she said.
“People have been finding them at Youngtown Reserve, Carr Villa Reserve, Kate Reed Reserve at Prospect and Punchbowl Reserve.”
The Tasmanian Fungi Facebook page is a great resource for people wanting advice about hot spots and help with identifying different species.
Ms Price said the page’s followers are very fortunate UTas mycologist Genevieve Gates, who runs the page, dedicates so much time to educating the group.
Similar to the Aurora Australis, the glow seen by the naked eye is different to the glow a camera will capture.
Ms Price recommends people locate the fungi in daylight and return at night see the glow.
“They don’t glow all the time. It is pot luck sometimes,” Ms Price said.
“I generally go a week after rain.”
Bioluminescent fungi are starting to “pop up in Hobart” after record-breaking rainfall two weeks ago.
