The monsoon across Maharashtra has once again transformed the forests of Matheran into a glowing natural spectacle, with bioluminescent fungi lighting up the forest floor under the cover of darkness.
Following the arrival of heavy rains in the Western Ghats, visitors have reported witnessing patches of decaying wood and damp leaf litter emitting an eerie green glow at night.
The phenomenon, which is rare, is a seasonal occurrence that appears during the peak monsoon months when humidity and moisture levels are at their highest.
Scientific reason behind glowing wood
The glow is produced by bioluminescent fungi, which thrive on rotting wood and organic matter in Matheran's dense forests. The fungi emit light through a natural biochemical reaction known as bioluminescence, creating an ethereal scene that resembles a carpet of tiny green lights spread across the forest floor.
Matheran's thick tree canopy, coupled with persistent rainfall and high humidity, provides ideal conditions for these fungi to flourish. The cool, damp environment allows the organisms to grow rapidly, making the glowing display visible on dark, rain-soaked nights.
Witnessing a ‘living galaxy’
Nature lovers describe the experience as watching a "living galaxy" beneath the forest canopy, offering a rare glimpse into one of the Western Ghats' lesser-known natural wonders.
Environmentalists say the annual appearance of the glowing fungi is also a reminder of the ecological richness of the Western Ghats, known for its exceptional biodiversity.
* This article was originally published here
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