From ScienceDaily · · 1m 50s
Chinese scientists find 65-million-year-old fungus D-rex
Chinese scientists discovered a giant fungus with roots stretching back 65 million years.
In brief
Chinese scientists discovered a giant fungus with roots stretching back 65 million years. Chinese scientists found a giant fungus Dianjunus rex that grows up to 20 inches tall and weighs nearly five pounds, with evolutionary roots dating back 65 million years after the dinosaur extinction. Originally reported by…
New giant fungus discovered
Chinese scientists found a giant fungus in Yunnan forests that grows up to 20 inches tall and weighs nearly five pounds.
D-rex: a new fungal family
The fungus belongs to a new family, Dianjunaceae, and is the largest known fruiting body in the Ascomycota phylum.
Evolutionary timeline
D-rex's lineage dates back 65 million years, emerging shortly after the dinosaur extinction event.
Genetic analysis reveals new family
Scientists created a new genus and family, Dianjunaceae, for D-rex after genetic analysis showed it was distinct from known fungi.
D-rex's nickname and origin
The fungus was named Dianjunus rex, inspired by its size and the ancient Dian kingdom.
Closest known relative
D-rex's closest relative is Graphostroma platystoma, a fungus that grows on dead hardwood in the Northern Hemisphere.
Why D-rex grows so large
D-rex's tall structure may improve spore dispersal in dense forests, but requires significant energy.
65-million-year connection
The fungus's lineage originated approximately 65 million years ago, one million years after the dinosaur extinction.
D-rex's ecological role
D-rex may decompose dead wood using enzymes that break down complex plant molecules.
China's fungal diversity
China's subtropical forests may harbor many undiscovered fungi due to diverse habitats and stable climates.
Why fungi remain hidden
Fungal reproductive structures are seasonal and often hidden, making them difficult to study in remote areas.
Future discoveries
Scientists expect more fungal species to be found in China's forests as research continues.
The big picture
Chinese scientists found a giant fungus Dianjunus rex that grows up to 20 inches tall and weighs nearly five pounds, with evolutionary roots dating back 65 million years after the dinosaur extinction.
