Filoboletus manipularis
19.06.2024
Filoboletus manipularis
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For Prelims: About Filoboletus manipularis, What are mushrooms? |
Why in the news?
Recently, researchers have discovered a rare species of bioluminescent mushrooms in the forests of Kasaragod which are scientifically known as Filoboletus manipularis.
About Filoboletus manipularis:
- It is a fascinating species of bioluminescent mushroom.
- These mushrooms glow a bright green at night due to a chemical reaction in their cells.
- Habitat: They thrive in tropical, humid environments, typically found in dense forests where there’s plenty of decaying organic matter, like fallen trees and leaves.
- This rich, moist environment provides the nutrients and conditions necessary for their growth and their unique glowing property.
- Biochemical process: The chemical reaction involving luciferin (a pigment) and luciferase (an enzyme) with oxygen plays a critical role in these mushrooms. This reaction produces light, a trait shared with other bioluminescent organisms like fireflies and certain marine creatures.
- Advantage: In fungi, this glowing mechanism is thought to attract insects, “which help disperse the mushroom’s spores”.
What are mushrooms?
- Mushrooms constitute secondary saprophytic fungi of the forest ecosystem.
- Secondary saprophytic fungi play a very important role in the decomposition of plant litter.
- The Western Ghats region in Kerala is rich in fungi, many of which could also be described as endemic to the region.
Source: Indian Express
Ques :- “Filoboletus manipularis”, recently seen in news, is a:
A.Frog
B.Bacteria
C.New plant species
D.Mushroom
Answer D