Mystriophallus

Mystriophallus is a genus of fungi belonging to the order Phallales, commonly known as stinkhorns. These fungi are characterized by their distinctive fruiting bodies, which typically emerge from an underground egg-like structure. The mature fruiting body is often phallic or dome-shaped and is covered in a slimy, spore-bearing mass called the gleba. This gleba is usually foul-smelling, attracting insects that aid in spore dispersal.

Species within Mystriophallus are found in various parts of the world, often in temperate and tropical regions. They are saprobic, meaning they derive nutrients from decaying organic matter, playing a role in decomposition within their ecosystems. The exact taxonomic classification of Mystriophallus has been subject to revision, with some species previously assigned to other genera. Research continues to refine our understanding of their evolutionary relationships and ecological significance. The distinct morphology and olfactory characteristics of Mystriophallus fungi make them a notable group within the larger fungal kingdom.