Australia, often known for its unique and dramatic wildlife, has yet again brought something bizarre and frankly a bit disturbing to the attention of the Internet.
But this recent discovery? Total pass from me.
While you might not ever get to explore a parallel dimension, spotting this strange organism will definitely give you major Stranger Things vibes.
Residents across Australia have been puzzled after encountering a foul-smelling fungus in their backyards. Its appearance and odor are enough to make your skin crawl!
It’s not just creepy to look at, but it also emits a stench reminiscent of decomposing flesh.
So, what on earth is it?
Professor Brett Summerell, the chief scientist at Sydney’s Royal Botanical Gardens, has identified the mysterious fungi as a type of stinkhorn.
In a conversation with Yahoo News Australia, he detailed the two variants troubling homeowners, explaining their gruesome smell.
Prof. Summerell shared: “The first one is an anemone stinkhorn [and] is found from southern Queensland to Tasmania, but since has been spread around Europe and north America.
“The other is anthurus archeri – the octopus stinkhorn. Both produce the brown stinky substance on the ‘tentacles’ to attract flies and other insects that are drawn to carrion, thus the decay-like odor.
“They are quite common during cooler weather and prefer woody mulch for growth. Fortunately, they are neither harmful to humans nor pets and tend to decompose quickly.”
Tom May, Principal Research Scientist at Victoria’s Royal Botanic Gardens, further explained the role of these fungi in Australian gardens.
He noted: “The spore mass is appealing to flies, which consume the spores and aid in their dispersal. These fungi often have bizarre, colorful forms, likely mimicking rotting meat, coupled with their foul smell to attract flies.
“For humans, their odor is a natural deterrent against consumption.”
While this might be a novelty for many of us, the occurrence of these fungi seems to be a recurring revelation on the internet, reappearing in cycles every few years, according to online commentators.
Under a viral video of the fungi, one viewer remarked: “I’m 20 and I’ve seen these several times through my life what do you mean they’ve just found it??”
Another puzzled comment read: “Why is it every six years we keep discovering this plant exists?”
However, those outside Australia also had their reactions.
One exclaimed: “AUSTRALIA!!! What in the Stephen King hell is going on down there?!?”
While another humorously suggested: “Demogorgon, for sure.”
Here’s hoping these eerie fungi don’t start popping up in other parts of the world.