Fungal Bioluminescence: Past, Present, and Future

Wenhua Lu, Alviti Kankanamalage Hasith Priyashantha, Mahesh C.A. Galappaththi, Saowaluck Tibpromma, Dong Qin Dai, Nimesha M. Patabendige, Bhagya M. Premarathne, Dinesh M. Kulasuriya, Aseni N. Ediriweera, Thilina S. Nimalrathna, Nakarin Suwannarach, Saisamorn Lumyong, Alvin Tang, Shi Cheng Shao*, Samantha C. Karunarathna*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

Abstract

The complex and diverse phenomenon of fungal bioluminescence has captured human curiosity. Nevertheless, in the field of studies, there are not many attempts made particularly to reveal the new species of these interesting fungi. This study comprehensively reviews the diversity, distribution, evolution, bioluminescence mechanisms, ecological roles, and potential applications of these fungi. Most importantly, we also present an updated list of the reported bioluminescent fungi (122) so far identified from five distinct evolutionary lineages worldwide—Armillaria, Eoscyphella, Lucentipes, Mycenoid, and Omphalotus—mainly in tropical and subtropical areas. Bioluminescent fungi are descended from the last common ancestor of the Mycenoid and the Marasmioid clades of Agaricales, which have been maintained for at least 160 million years of evolution. We underscore the potential for future research to understand the ecological role of bioluminescent fungi, inspiring hope and optimism for the future of this field.

Original languageEnglish
Article number539
Number of pages20
JournalDiversity
Volume16
Issue number9
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2 Sept 2024

Scopus Subject Areas

  • Ecology
  • Ecological Modelling
  • Agricultural and Biological Sciences (miscellaneous)
  • Nature and Landscape Conservation

User-Defined Keywords

  • biodiversity
  • bioluminescence
  • distribution
  • luciferin-luciferase
  • mushrooms

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