Top 10 Most Peculiar Fungi Species

Also known as the honey mushroom, it's a type of fungus that grows underground in massive clusters, with one individual specimen estimated to be over 2,400 years old. This fungus can cover hundreds of acres and is considered a keystone species in its ecosystem. It has been reported to infect over 3,000 tree species across North America. The Armillaria ostoyae was first discovered in Oregon, USA, in 1998.

This fungus infects ants and controls their behavior, causing them to climb to high locations before producing spores. The fungus then kills the ant, but its unique relationship with ants allows it to spread its spores more efficiently. Ophiocordyceps unilateralis has been found in rainforests of South America and Asia. The fungus was first discovered in 2013.

This edible fungi grows on deciduous trees and gets its unique appearance from long, white spines that resemble a lion's mane. It has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat various health issues. Lion's Mane contains bioactive compounds with anti-inflammatory properties, such as hericenones and erinacines. The fungus is native to North America and Europe.

This coral-like fungi grows in tropical oceans and is thought to be a symbiotic relationship between the fungus and algae. The coral fungus can grow up to 10 feet long and is often used as an ingredient in Asian cuisine. It has been found in coral reefs around the world, including the Great Barrier Reef. Tremella mesenterica was first discovered in the 18th century.

Also known as hen-of-the-woods, these mushrooms grow on deciduous trees and are prized for their unique flavor and nutritional benefits. The fungus contains bioactive compounds with antitumor properties, making it a potential treatment for cancer. Maitake mushrooms have been used in traditional Japanese medicine for centuries.

This poisonous fungi gets its name from its ghostly white appearance and is found in North America and Asia. The fungus grows underground in vast clusters and can be toxic to humans if ingested. Ghost Fungus contains a toxin called gyromitrin, which has been reported to cause liver damage.

This type of fungi gets its name from the multicolored appearance resembling a turkey's tail. It grows on trees and logs in deciduous forests around the world. The fungus contains beta-glucans, which have been shown to stimulate the immune system.

These fungi get their name from their puffy appearance and can be found growing in fields and forests worldwide. Some species of puffballs are edible, but others contain spores that can release toxic enzymes when ingested. The largest recorded puffball was over 1 foot in diameter.

Similar to the coral fungus, this jelly-like fungi grows on rocks and decaying wood in tropical oceans. It is often used as an ingredient in Asian cuisine and has been found in oceanic areas around the world. The jelly fungus can grow up to 10 feet long.

This edible fungi gets its name from its ghostly appearance and shaggy gills. It grows in fields and meadows across Europe and Asia, typically after heavy rainfall. The fungus contains a compound called coprine, which can cause digestive issues if ingested in excess.