There are so many weird and strange fungi around the world! Click here to learn about a strange mushroom that looks like it's bleeding!
Figure 1: A picture of H. peckii, the bleeding fungus
Introduction
Fungi come in all shapes, sizes, and colours around the world. But have you heard about the creepiest possible fungus of them all? Meet Hydnellum peckii, also known as the bleeding fungus, strawberries and cream, the bleeding Hydnellum, the red-juice tooth, the Devil's tooth, and even alien fungus.
More About H. peckii
The hydnellum peckii is native to the Pacific Northwest and can be found in North America, Europe, Iran and Korea. Despite its horrific look, H. peckii is non-toxic and even has health benefits. Rumour has it that the bleeding fungus is so bitter that it is almost inedible. This fungus is also used to create natural dyes. Can you believe that, despite its terrifying appearance, H. peckii is used to produce grey, brown, and olive colours?
This fungus contains a chemical compound called atromentin, which has properties similar to blood-thinner heparin. As a result, scientists have also discovered that the fungus contains anticoagulants and telephonic acid that can keep blood clots from forming and can even be used in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease in the future.
Why is it the "Bleeding" Fungus?
H. peckii does not bleed because it is hurt, rather, it is caused by a process similar to water seeping out at the edges of a plant's leaves. The process occurs when the soil surrounding the “tooth” is too wet, the bleeding tooth fungus will have excess water inside, which creates pressure to force the water out which makes it seem like it's "bleeding." For now, scientists don't know what the “blood” is but suspect it comes from the pigment found inside the fungus. Unfortunately, this "bleeding" phenomenon only happens when the bleeding tooth fungus is still young and growing. When it matures, it stops “bleeding” and becomes a shade of brown.
H. peckii and its Relationship with Trees
The bleeding tooth fungus creates an interesting relationship with coniferous trees. Why? Well, when the fungus grows next to the coniferous tree, The tree provides carbon dioxide to the fungus, the bleeding tooth fungus helps the tree better absorb amino acids and minerals in the soil. Its presence often indicates that the forest is rich in biodiversity. In your next forest trip, look out for coniferous trees to - maybe - get lucky enough to see the bleeding tooth fungus!
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