This Glowing Mushroom Discovered by Artists in Switzerland Will Amaze You

Bioluminescence, often associated with tropical forests, is now revealing its presence in Europe, specifically in Switzerland. The recent discovery of bioluminescence in a European fungal species, Mycena crocata, has captivated both artists and scientists alike. Previously considered non-luminous, this mushroom now unveils a mysterious property that raises new questions about the biological and ecological mechanisms of living organisms.

the mystery of bioluminescent fungi

Mushrooms that glow have fascinated humanity since Aristotle first observed them over 2,000 years ago, describing them as a “cold fire” emanating from decaying wood. Yet, the enigma surrounding this phenomenon has persisted throughout time. The mechanisms behind certain organisms’ ability to produce light are only beginning to be well understood.

Though typically linked to tropical regions, bioluminescence also manifests in temperate environments. A study conducted by researchers at the Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research (WSL) recently demonstrated this with a fungus found in Switzerland. Published in Mycoscience journal, the research uncovers an unexpected trait in Mycena crocata—a common mushroom across Europe and Asia. Identified through collaboration with Zurich-based artists, this previously unseen bioluminescence poses questions about its ecological functions and evolutionary implications.

a light in the darkness: the emergence of a mushroom

During nocturnal strolls through the forests of Albisrieden, a district of Zurich, artists Heidy Baggenstos and Andreas Rudolf—accustomed to exploring bioluminescent organisms—spotted a faint green glow emanating from a mushroom. Captured using a camera devoid of artificial light, this observation revealed a phenomenon imperceptible to the naked eye under normal conditions.

• The artists initially believed they had discovered Mycena haematopus—an already known luminous species.
• Upon further analysis in their studio, they identified it as Mycena crocata.

This unexpected finding prompted extensive scientific inquiry because M. crocata was reputedly non-bioluminescent despite its widespread presence in European forests.

scientific analysis: an elusive light

With support from Renate Heinzelmann, a mycologist at WSL, the luminous properties of Mycena crocata were confirmed. Genetic analyses unveiled that this species possesses genes associated with bioluminescence similar to other glowing fungi.

• M. crocata primarily grows on beech debris and other hardwoods.
• It emits diffuse green light from its mycelium—the underground part responsible for nutrient absorption.

This largely unknown property requires specific conditions to be observed and studied precisely using modern tools; however, increasing light pollution compromises these discoveries. “Today we usually carry cell phones or flashlights but need complete darkness to see forest bioluminescence,” emphasizes Rudolf.

exploring fungal bioluminescence mysteries

Despite advances understanding chemical mechanisms behind bioluminescence—the ecological role remains enigmatic among fungal species producing intense luminescence attracting nocturnal insects facilitating spore dispersion seems unlikely for Mycena crocata as spores predominantly dispersed via wind while emitted light weak localized often invisible human eye interaction pollinators potential vectors challenging evolution phenomenon suggests alternative function perhaps interactions microorganisms internal processes related survival specific environments.

The illumination of Mycena crocata’s bioluminescent properties opens perspectives existence other species within genus possessing unrecognized luminous capabilities.
M. crocata’s discovery highlights unexplored aspects fungal biodiversity European forests stimulating fresh perspectives on poorly understood phenomena.
The research calls systematic exploration mushroom species employing modern tools such as luminometers high-sensitivity cameras better understand distribution evolutionary functions unique phenomena forest ecosystems.
The difficulty detecting weak natural light combined lack thorough investigation contributes bias significant underestimation real number bioluminescent species within group recent analyses revealed several previously considered non-luminous Mycena possess necessary genes suggest important underestimation actual number glowing fungal entities.
This discovery urges systematic exploration mushroom species utilizing advanced technology improving comprehension unique ecological processes occurring beneath forest canopies.