03/10/2019 13:56
Poison fire coral: Deadly Asian fungus detected in Australia
One of the world's most deadly fungi has been identified growing in Australia for the first time, scientists say.
The poison fire coral, which has a red appearance, was previously thought to be native to Japan and Korea.
Its presence in the tropical state of Queensland - after sightings elsewhere in Asia - "considerably" extends the reach of the species, researchers said.
If eaten, the fungus can cause organ failure and brain damage.
In some recorded cases of fatalities in Japan and South Korea, people had brewed tea from poison fire coral after confusing it with an edible fungus used in traditional medicine.
Even touching the fungus can cause inflammation and dermatitis, researchers from James Cook University (JCU) said.
"Of the hundred or so toxic mushrooms that are known to researchers, this is the only one in which the toxins can be absorbed through the skin," said Dr Matt Barrett.