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

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