Stinkhorn

Description:

Red headed fungus on white stalk; instead of circular umbrella-like cap has tentacle-like appendages.

Habitat:

Mixed native and alien mid-elevation tropical montane forest.

Notes:

Spotted growing in vegetative litter along the north side of Aiea Loop Trail, just southwest of the junction with Kalauao Valley Trail. The brown material around the central opening is an insect attractant. Insects are vectors for stinkhorn spores.