Crimson Goblet Fungus

Fungi > Pezizales

The Crimson Goblet Fungus (Phillipsia domingensis) is one of the most vividly colorful ascomycete fungi inhabiting the Neotropical rainforests of Central America, the Caribbean, and the Amazon Basin. Often termed the ‘Ruby Cup,’ this striking saprotrophic...

Mediterranean Cytinus

Plants > Malvales

Mediterranean Cytinus (Cytinus hypocistis) is an extraordinary and bizarre parasitic flowering plant native to the sun-baked maquis and garrigue landscapes of the Mediterranean basin. Completely devoid of chlorophyll, green leaves, and autonomous root systems, this...

Black Sacoglossan

Invertebrates > Sacoglossa

The Black Sacoglossan (Cyerce nigra) is one of the most visually mesmerizing sea slugs gracing tropical Indo-Pacific coral reefs. Belonging to the sacoglossan family Caliphyllidae—commonly known as ‘sap-sucking slugs’—this shell-less marine gastropod is...

Pontoh’s Pygmy Seahorse

Fish > Syngnathiformes

Pontoh’s Pygmy Seahorse (Hippocampus pontohi) is one of the smallest vertebrates inhabiting the marine realm. Named in honor of Indonesian dive guide Hence Pontoh who discovered it off Bunaken Island in North Sulawesi, this miniature syngnathid belongs to the...

Water Club Mushroom

Fungi > Helotiales

The Water Club Mushroom (Vibrissea truncorum) is an extraordinary and enchanting aquatic ascomycete fungus found in pristine, ice-cold mountain streams across the northern hemisphere. Often called the ‘Water Beacon,’ this amphibious mushroom fruits...