Moth Urchin Fungus (Akanthomyces aculeatus)
Moth Urchin Fungus (Akanthomyces aculeatus)
Moth Urchin Fungus (Akanthomyces aculeatus)
Moth Urchin Fungus (Akanthomyces aculeatus)
Moth Urchin Fungus (Akanthomyces aculeatus)
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Moth Urchin Fungus

Akanthomyces aculeatus

Life > Fungi > Ascomycota > Pezizomycotina > Sordariomycetes > Hypocreomycetidae > Hypocreales > Cordycipitaceae > Akanthomyces


Description

The Moth Urchin Fungus (Akanthomyces aculeatus) is a fungus that parasitizes and consumes adult moths. The mycelium creates a thick mat that encompasses the moth and sometimes adheres to adjacent surfaces. It can be found in the summer through fall in moist habitats. As the fungus grows, spear-shaped spikes protrude outward making it look like a sea urchin. The clubs produce spores in order to infect more insects. Spooky!


Observations

August 12th, 2024 Indian Cave State Park
 (Akanthomyces aculeatus)

AA28

  • Fruiting on infected moth in low mixed oak/hickory woodland near creek.

References

Akanthomyces aculeatus Lebert, Zeitschrift für wissenschaftliche Zoologie 9 449 (1858) [MB#431365]

Kuo, M. (2022, August). Akanthomyces aculeatus. Retrieved from the MushroomExpert.Com Web site: http://www.mushroomexpert.com/akanthomyces_aculeatus.html

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