Sitatunga

Mammals > Even-Toed Ungulates

The Sitatunga (Tragelaphus spekii), also known as the Marshbuck, is a uniquely specialized, semi-aquatic swamp antelope native to the impenetrable papyrus marshes of sub-Saharan Africa. Renowned for its extraordinarily elongated, splayed hooves that function like...

Shingled Hedgehog

Fungi > Tooth Fungi

The Shingled Hedgehog (Sarcodon imbricatus), also famously known as the Scaly Hedgehog or Hawk Wing Mushroom, is a magnificent, rugged tooth fungus native to mature montane conifer forests across the Northern Hemisphere. Instantly distinguished by its colossal, dark...

Mormon Tea

Plants > Gnetophytes

Mormon Tea (Ephedra viridis), also known as Green Ephedra or Jointfir, is a fascinating, primitive gymnosperm native to the rugged canyons and sandstone mesas of the American West. Belonging to the ancient and enigmatic plant order Gnetales, this striking, bright...

Malayan Jungle Nymph

Invertebrates > Stick Insects

The Malayan Jungle Nymph (Heteropteryx dilatata) is an absolute titan among the world’s insects, renowned as the heaviest phasmid (stick insect) on Earth. Exhibiting extreme sexual dimorphism, the monumental female resembles a massive, lime-green spiny leaf...

Gulf Coast Waterdog

Amphibians > Giant Salamanders

The Gulf Coast Waterdog (Necturus beyeri) is a completely aquatic, permanently paedomorphic salamander endemic to the winding, pine-forested coastal streams of the Gulf of Mexico basin. Retaining its dramatic, bushy maroon external gills throughout its entire adult...