Omphalotus illudens

Omphalotus illudens, also known as the Jack-o'-Lantern mushroom, is a species of fungus in the family Omphalotaceae. It is native to eastern North America, including the United States and Canada, and has been introduced to other regions including Europe and Asia.

Description

The fruit bodies of Omphalotus illudens are large and brightly colored, typically orange or yellow. They have a cap that can reach up to 20 cm in diameter, and a stipe (stem) that is 2-8 cm long. The gills are decurrent, running down the length of the stipe. One of the most distinctive features of this species is its bioluminescent properties. The gills of the mushroom glow in the dark, a phenomenon known as bioluminescence.

Habitat and distribution

Omphalotus illudens is a saprotrophic fungus, meaning it obtains its nutrients by decomposing dead organic matter. It is commonly found growing in clusters at the base of hardwood trees, particularly oaks. The species is native to eastern North America, but has been introduced to other regions, including Europe and Asia.

Toxicity

Despite its attractive appearance, Omphalotus illudens is a toxic mushroom. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is often mistaken for the edible chanterelle, but can be distinguished by its gills and bioluminescent properties.

See also

• List of bioluminescent fungi
• Omphalotus olearius
• Omphalotus nidiformis