Amethyst Coral Fungus Named 2025 Fungus of the Year

The striking purple fungus faces a severe threat to its habitat due to intensive land use.

The Amethyst Coral Fungus, known scientifically as Clavaria zollingeri, has been honored as the Fungus of the Year 2025 by the German Mycological Society.
Fewer than 40 sites in Germany, including regions like the Bavarian Forest and the Erzgebirge, still host this distinctive violet fungus.
The fungus thrives in nutrient-poor meadows, pastures, and ash forests, preferring acidic soils rich in humus.
Over 90% of its natural habitat in Europe and North America has been lost due to excessive fertilizer and manure use over the past 70 years.
The Amethyst Coral Fungus is not edible, despite its vibrant and appealing appearance.