News Item in Ceylon Today, March 2025
A rare species of mushroom, which is considered one of the most unique in the world, has been discovered at a journalist’s residence in Hapugala, Galle, according to the Ceylon Journal of Science.
This mushroom species was first discovered in Malaysia, and later reported in Madagascar. Prior to this, it had been documented in Sri Lanka in 1919 at the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens among fungi. After a long gap, this species was reported again in Sri Lanka in 2023, with the discovery made at the home of a journalist couple, Sajeeva Wijeweera and Sirangika Lokukarawita, in Hapugala, Galle, following heavy rainfall.
Researchers state that this mushroom only appears during periods of heavy rain. This particular mushroom species is characterised by a strong, unpleasant odour and comes in pink and red colours. The pungent smell of the mushroom attracts official flies, and the mushroom relies on the assistance of these flies for its reproduction.
The species has been scientifically named Mutinus bambusinus, and the research into its discovery in Galle was conducted by Bhathiya Gopallawa, Deepthi Yakandawala, Sajeeva Wijeweera, G.K.I.S. Maadola, and N.K.B. Adhikarama.
The name Mutinus bambusinus was given to the species because it is believed to be related to the genus Mutinus. However, the discovery in Galle is notable because there is no surrounding environment with Unguicellum species in the immediate vicinity. The location of the mushroom features several types of trees such as coconut, a few native Lena Thaeri trees, Sadikka trees, some artificially introduced stone pieces, and several decaying branches, as well as scattered wildflower bushes. The area is also home to a small shrub of less than 10 square feet, though it is heavily shaded.
When continuous rain falls for several days, small mushroom balls emerge from the ground and elongate into a stick-like shape, releasing a strong, unpleasant smell before decaying. According to the researchers, the official flies attracted by the smell help in propagating the fungus.
The researchers also mentioned that there are approximately 25,000 species of fungi in Sri Lanka, but only around 2,500 have been identified so far, with no systematic research conducted on the rest. Therefore, the number of unrecognised species is believed to be ten times greater than the identified species. The discovery of this mushroom species was prompted by a sudden interest in studying fungi.