Ghost Fungus
Distribution
Southern and eastern Australia (Tasmania, southwestern Western Australia, southeastern regions to Queensland); also reported in Indonesia and New Caledonia
Habitat
Parasitic and saprobic on dead or diseased trees; causes white heart rot; found on various native and introduced tree species in forests, parks, and gardens
Season
Autumn and winter (April to August in the Southern Hemisphere), but can appear year-round in favorable conditions
Toxin Type
Illudin
Symptoms
Severe abdominal spasms and violent vomiting within two hours of ingestion. Symptoms persist for several hours. Notably, diarrhea is less prominent or absent compared to Omphalotus olearius.
Hallucinogenic Effects
No hallucinogenic effects. The mushroom is dramatically bioluminescent - the gills emit a strong green glow that diminishes as the specimen ages. The glow is reportedly bright enough to read by in complete darkness, giving rise to the 'ghost fungus' common name. The bioluminescence creates an eerie spectral appearance in dark forests.