These bioluminescent mushrooms produce light through a chemical reaction involving luciferin and luciferase1. When these substances come into contact with oxygen, light is emitted. The light is usually green and has a wavelength between 520 - 530 nm. There are many types of glowing mushrooms. For example, Panellus stipticus is one of the brightest. It is a flat - shaped fungus that looks like a pile of small fans growing on a stick. It is dull beige during the day, but at night it becomes extremely dazzling2. Mycena chlorophos is also well - known. Its cap is yellow - green, and when it opens, it emits a pale - green glow1. In addition, Armillaria mellea is one of the most widely distributed luminescent fungi, found in North America and Asia. Both its fruiting body and mycelium can glow2.

The exact purpose of the bioluminescence in mushrooms is still uncertain1. Some scientists believe that it may serve as a way to attract insects, which would then help to spread the spores of the fungus to new areas1. Others believe that it may be a form of defense, deterring predators from consuming the mushroom by making it less appealing1.