After last week’s heavy rains, one of our homeowners went exploring on the trails and came across something unexpected: a colorful collection of mushrooms sprouting.
Below are the photos he shared of what he found, along with some curious details and characteristics that make each species distinctive.
Clathrus natalensis
This striking species, often called a lattice stinkhorn, appears like a red-orange cage bursting from the ground. It thrives in moist soil rich with organic matter, conditions made possible after days of rain saturate the soil. The lattice structure releases a strong odor that attracts insects, which then help spread its spores. Though unusual to encounter, it’s a natural recycler, playing an important role in breaking down organic debris. Its lifespan is short, sometimes just a few days, making its sudden appearance a rare treat.
Phallus lutescens
Another member of the stinkhorn family, this mushroom lives up to its name with a bright yellow stalk and a slimy cap that releases an earthy scent. It thrives in the humid microclimates that form in Guanacaste’s tropical dry forest after the rain. Insects are irresistibly drawn to it, carrying spores to new places as they come and go. Despite its strange look, this fungus is a vital link in the ecosystem, helping return nutrients to the soil. Like most stinkhorns, it emerges quickly, grows fast, and vanishes almost as suddenly.
Cortinarius iodes
Known as the spotted cort or the viscous violet cort, this mushroom is a true gem of the forest. With its glossy purple cap, it stands out against the earthy tones of the trails. It requires damp, shaded soil and often appears in clusters after extended rain. This species is fascinating not only for its color but also for its slippery, almost gelatinous surface. The violet hue fades as it ages, offering a fleeting glimpse of its vivid beauty. Its life is short, but during that time it plays a key role in forming symbiotic relationships with trees, exchanging nutrients that help the forest thrive.
The tropical dry forest reveals many of its secrets only after the rains. These mushrooms are just one example of how quickly the landscape shifts, offering rare and fleeting sights to those who take the time to look closely.