Rare Bridal Veil Mushroom Spotted in Phayao Forest
A rare bridal veil stinkhorn mushroom with an elegant white lace-like veil appeared in a Phayao forest village, attracting locals to photograph the unusual fungus that smells like rotting flesh and withers within hours.
Villagers in Dok Khamtai district of Phayao were surprised after a rare bridal veil stinkhorn mushroom emerged on the forest floor at the edge of their village, prompting many residents to photograph the unusual fungus, which is only occasionally seen.
The mushroom, known in Thai as hed rang rae, is also commonly called the bridal mushroom, bamboo pith mushroom or skirt mushroom because of its distinctive appearance. It features a brownish-green conical cap and a delicate white net-like veil hanging around its stalk, resembling a bride's lace dress.
Despite its elegant appearance, the mushroom produces a strong odour similar to rotting flesh. The smell is a natural adaptation that attracts flies and other insects, which feed on the slimy coating covering the cap and help disperse its spores.
The bridal veil stinkhorn typically grows in damp environments, including bamboo forests, mixed deciduous forests, orchards and areas covered with decaying leaves and rotting wood. It is most commonly found during the rainy season, from May to October.
The fungus has a very short lifespan. Its lace-like veil unfurls within hours before the mushroom quickly withers, making sightings rare and adding to its reputation as one of Thailand's more remarkable natural wonders.
