7 weirdest shaped fungi you might have never heard of

Fungi are odd-looking organisms that include yeasts, molds, and mushrooms. They are also known eukaryotic organisms classified under the kingdom fungi. These unique species inhabit forests, rotting wood, and even the bodies of insects. Fungi play a crucial role in decomposition and nutrient cycling, while some have evolved astonishing methods for survival, such as launching spores at bullet-like speeds or taking control of their hosts.

Strange-looking fungi can be found around the world, such as a fungi that oozes blood-like sap, resembling a hair-like ice, or even mimicking human fingers rising from the ground. With their eerie resemblance, various species of fungi challenge our understanding of nature’s creativity and survival strategies. Prepare to be both intrigued and amazed by these seven weird-looking species as we explore them here.





Strange fungi around the world

Bleeding tooth fungus (Hydnellum peckii)

Known as the "bleeding tooth fungus," this bizarre-looking organism resembles teeth oozing blood. Found in North America, Europe, Iran, and South Korea, it’s a fascinating but eerie sight.


Devil's fingers (Clathrus archeri)

With its striking resemblance to octopus tentacles or demonic fingers, Clathrus archeri, also called Devil’s fingers or octopus stinkhorn, has a smell as unpleasant as its appearance. Introduced to the UK from the southern hemisphere, this rare fungus fruits between June and September. Once spotted, it's hard to forget.


Dung cannon (Pilobolus crystallinus)

Fungi aren't usually fast, but Pilobolus crystallinus, also known as the "dung cannon," defies expectations. Its spores shoot out in a jet, reaching speeds of 90 kph and accelerating faster than a bullet. Despite being small, this fungus can propel its spores up to 200 meters.


Hair ice (Exidiopsis effusa)

At first glance, hair ice looks like delicate white threads on rotting wood. It forms only under specific winter conditions when moisture, temperature, and the presence of the fungus Exidiopsis effusa are just right. The result is an ethereal, hair-like ice formation that captivates the curious eye.


Zombie fungi (Cordyceps and Ophiocordyceps)

Cordyceps and Ophiocordyceps are fungi that turn their insect hosts into zombies. After infecting the host, the fungi grow fruiting bodies from the host's body and manipulate its behaviour to help spread their spores. It’s a real-life horror movie for insects.

Purple jellydisc (Ascocoryne sarcoides)

This jelly-like fungus, often found on dead beech trees across Europe and North America, resembles colourful clusters of intestines or jelly babies. Measuring 5-10 cm across, it helps break down dead wood and is quite the spectacle in the forest.

Dead man's fingers (Xylaria polymorpha)

Looking disturbingly like human fingers emerging from the earth, this weird fungus, Xylaria polymorpha, is a decomposer found in forests across the UK, Ireland, Europe, and North America. Its eerie appearance might give you nightmares, but it's simply part of nature’s recycling system.




Also read: Discover 8 animals that suck blood for survival