glowcap

Glowcap is the common name given to several bioluminescent mushrooms that emit a faint light in dark conditions. The glow is typically blue-green and can be observed from the fruiting bodies or sometimes the surrounding mycelium. Luminescence is usually most visible in damp, cool conditions and tends to vary with age, substrate, and environmental factors.

Glowcaps occur across multiple fungal genera, most notably Mycena, Panellus, Neonothopanus, and Omphalotus. Species within these groups have been reported to produce visible light, earning the broad label glowcap. They are found in temperate to tropical regions around the world and commonly grow on decaying wood, leaf litter, or other plant material.

Bioluminescence in glowcaps is produced by a luciferin-luciferase chemical reaction in fungal tissues. The light is self-generated and not warm to the touch. The exact ecological purpose of the glow is not fully understood; hypotheses include aiding spore dispersal by attracting insects or simply being a byproduct of metabolic processes.

Observation and safety: to see the glow, observe in a completely dark area after a period of adaptation, and avoid bright ambient light. The glow is generally faint and may be difficult to detect with the naked eye. Many glowcaps resemble other wild mushrooms; some species are edible or harmless, while others are toxic. Do not handle or consume wild mushrooms without expert identification.