North Carolina's many forests and preserves make it a seamless effort to be in awe of nature and all that we encounter when exploring the deepest recesses of the Tar Heel State on foot. And while that's a task that's best enjoyed during the daylight hours, there's a hidden secret to discover along those same paths after dark.
One of the things we love most about North Carolina is the ability to find a hiking trail worthy of adventure in any part of the state.
On any given day, numerous parks, perserves, state parks, forests, and more are accessible for reconnecting with Mother Nature in a variety of ways. But for those who camp overnight or explore after dark, there's a hidden bonus... a glow-in-the-dark fungus that's found throughout many of North Carolina's forests.
Once the sun fades and the lights go down, certain kinds of fungus found growing on trees can be seen glowing in the dark.
It's the same fungus we see during the day that takes on a whole new life after dark...
Currently, there are at least 75 species of this bioluminiscent fungi growing all around the world and a little more than 20 are found in North America. But what, exactly, makes them glow after dark?
Simply put, a couple of things happen to make the magic work: luciferin is emitted by the fungus and is then oxidized by another substance (luciferase) to create the glow.
Some scientists believe the glow is a reaction to the breakdown of chemicals in the wood on which the fungi are attached.
Others believe the light is a natural attempt to attract insects and other grazers so they'll spread the fungi spores.
If you've ever explored a campground or a trail after dark, have you encountered any glow-in-the-dark fungus? We'd love to know!
Know of another oddball nature-related phenom in North Carolina that we should feature here? Give us a heads up at this link!
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