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Hypomyces hyalinus
Parasitic fungi that is attacking an Amanita mushroom - most likely Amanita amerirubescens. This fungi completely disfigures its host. The infection prevents the expansion of the cap, and causes the cap to fuse to the stem. As a result, the gills are also destroyed and the fruiting body dies without dispersing any spores. This mushroom was 5-6 inches tall.
Growing on the ground in a deciduous forest.
3 Comments
I wish I could have seen them in person!
It was cool, and there were a whole bunch that were infected in the area.
How cool!