Phallales

Phallales is an order of fungi within the class Agaricomycetes. This order is characterized by its members producing basidiocarps (fruiting bodies) that often resemble phalluses, hence the name. Many species in Phallales are commonly known as stinkhorns due to the foul, carrion-like odor they emit to attract insects for spore dispersal.

The fungi belonging to Phallales are typically saprobic, meaning they obtain nutrients from decaying organic matter. They play an important ecological role in decomposition. These fungi are found globally, often in wooded areas or areas with rich soil.

Key characteristics of the Phallales order include:

• Gleba: The spore-containing mass, known as the gleba, is typically slimy and produced on the exterior of the fruiting body.

• Peridium: Many members start as a subterranean or partially subterranean egg-like structure called a peridium.

• Volva: The remnants of the peridium often persist as a volva at the base of the mature fruiting body.

• Spore Dispersal: Spores are dispersed primarily by insects attracted to the strong odor of the gleba.

Common genera within the Phallales order include Phallus, Mutinus, Clathrus, and Lysurus. Classification within the Phallales has been subject to revision based on molecular phylogenetic studies.