Chicken Star Mushroom / Glow-in-the-Dark Mushroom

General Characteristics

• Scientific Name: Mycena chlorophos. This species is one of the bioluminescent mushrooms, which naturally produce light due to the presence of luciferin. When luciferin reacts with oxygen in the environment, it produces a faint greenish glow.

• Size and Shape: Bioluminescent mushrooms are typically small, with cap sizes around 1-2 centimeters. They usually grow in clusters, with slender, elongated stems.

• Bioluminescence: These mushrooms emit a soft green glow in the dark, which attracts insects and small animals that help in the dispersal of spores.

Habitat

Bioluminescent mushrooms are commonly found in humid, evergreen forests. They often grow on decaying wood or in soil rich in decomposing organic matter. In Thailand, these glow-in-the-dark mushrooms can be found in certain areas of Khao Sok National Park, which is known for its rich biodiversity.

Ecological Role

Bioluminescent mushrooms play a vital role as decomposers in the ecosystem. They help break down organic material in the forest, facilitating the recycling of nutrients in the soil. Additionally, the light they emit may attract insects and small animals, aiding in the dispersion of their spores.

Significance and Conservation

The glow-in-the-dark mushroom is of significant interest to both tourists and scientists due to its rarity and unique bioluminescent property. Conservation of the humid evergreen forests where these mushrooms thrive is crucial to maintaining Thailand's rich biodiversity.

Research and observations conducted in Khao Sok National Park provide valuable insights into the role and importance of bioluminescent mushrooms within the ecosystem.