Canine detects exotic underground fungi

Exploring the Protected Lands of Bavarian Forest National Park - Canine detects exotic underground fungi

Leo, the truffle-sniffing pooch, unearths rarity in Bavarian Forest National Park. The trusty sidekick of park employee and mycologist Peter Karasch, Leo, unearthed a peculiar copper-red slime mold truffle (Melanogaster tuberiformis), as a representative stated.

Research on truffles has been ongoing in the park for quite some time now. Given the challenge in locating the fruiting bodies of these underground fungi, dogs occasionally join expeditions, as was disclosed.

Last week, Leo sniffed out the elusive find close to Neuschönau (under the district of Freyung-Grafenau). The fruiting bodies are said to measure around two centimeters and possess a strong odor of decaying onions. Consequently, well-trained dogs might potentially detect them with ease, stated the representative.

A subsequent microscopic examination confirmed that the discovery was indeed the copper-red slime mold truffle. This marked the first recorded occurrence of this truffle in the national park, as well as in the Bohemian Forest region, and the second one in Bavaria.

The park's focus on truffle research highlights the importance of animals like Leo in agriculture, as they help locate these rare fungi. Due to its distinct characteristics, the copper-red slime mold truffle could potentially contribute to the local agricultural economy through its unique properties.

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