Red Lattice Stinkhorn
Colus hirudinosus
Red Lattice Stinkhorn: Non-edible with Fetid Odor
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Key Features
- White basal volva (egg-like base)
- Short
- spongy orange-to-red stalk
- Vertical columns joined at the apex
- Red net-like (clathrate) lattice at the top
- Dark
- slimy
- foul-smelling spore mass
Color:
Orange to bright red with dark brown/black gleba
Smell:
Foul, like rotting meat
Growth Pattern:
Single
Environment:
leaf litter
Habitat & Distribution
Habitat:
Coniferous forests and gardens in Mediterranean regions
Distribution:
Southern Europe, Mediterranean basin, and Israel
Seasonality:
Autumn and winter
Economic Value
Market Demand:
None - toxic
Price Range:
N/A
Commercial Use:
None
Toxicity Information
Symptoms:
- Severe abdominal pain
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
Onset Time:
30 minutes to 3 hours
First Aid:
- Do not induce vomiting
- Seek medical attention immediately
- Keep a specimen for identification
Emergency Contacts:
- Israel Medical Emergency: 101
- General Emergency: 112
- Israel Poison Information Center (Rambam): 04-854-1900
Similar Species
Lattice Stinkhorn
Clathrus ruber
Key Differences:
- Lacks a distinct stalk
- Grows as a complete spherical lattice
- Larger overall diameter
Octopus Stinkhorn
Clathrus archeri
Key Differences:
- Arms are free and not joined at the apex
- Resembles an octopus or star
- Brighter red tentacles
Recommended Action
Do not consume; keep away from children and pets.