Filoboletus manipularis is a rare type of bioluminescent mushroom that is found in the forests of Kerala. It is also known as Phylloboletus manipularis, and it glows in the dark. The Filoboletus manipularis mushroom emits a green colour at night. The Kasaragod Division of the Kerala Forest and Wildlife Department, in collaboration with the Mushrooms of India Community, conducted a micro-fungal survey that resulted in the discovery of over 50 types of mushrooms. The Filoboletus manipularis stood out because of its luminous features. The survey's goal was to catalogue the fungal diversity of the region. Glowing Mushrooms Found in Meghalaya: Know How These Bioluminescent Fungi Species Emit Light at Night (Watch Videos).

What Is the Filoboletus manipularis?

Filoboletus manipularis is a type of bioluminescent mushroom that glows at night. It is believed that the mushroom’s natural glow draws insects and aids in the spread of spores and fungal reproduction. These mushrooms have earned the nickname ‘electric mushrooms’ because of their glowing properties.

Why Does the Filoboletus manipularis Glow?

The glow of Filoboletus manipularis is caused by a chemical reaction between a pigment called luciferin and an enzyme known as luciferase. The process also involves oxygen. Like other bioluminescent animals like fireflies and some marine life, this process also results in a glow. Though the process is similar to that of other bioluminescent beings, the specific chemicals involved can be different, highlighting the variety of bioluminescent life.

Where Else Are Glowing Mushrooms Found?

In Meghalaya, in the northeastern part of India, you can find bioluminescent mushrooms. There are glowing mushrooms on almost every continent. While some bioluminescent mushroom varieties can be found in parts of South Africa and Europe, some are found only in North America and São Paulo, Brazil. What Causes Bioluminescent? From Best Time to See Bioluminescence to Know if it's Harmful to Humans, FAQs on the Blue Light That Makes Oceans Look Magical in the Night.

Scientists have advised against consuming Filoboletus manipularis, the glowing mushrooms. Harmful chemicals are present in wild mushrooms, especially bioluminescent mushrooms. If consumed, the chemicals that give them their glow could cause serious stomach problems or worse. Hence, it's better to appreciate these mushrooms for their aesthetic value until further research deems them safe.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 18, 2024 01:01 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).