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Scientists have uncovered that mushrooms evolved the ability to make psilocybin not once but twice, using completely different biochemical toolkits.

This rare case of convergent evolution shows nature arriving at the same mind-altering molecule by two separate paths. The true reason fungi produce psilocybin remains unsolved, but theories range from predator defense to chemical communication. Beyond evolutionary intrigue, the discovery also offers new enzyme tools that could help produce psilocybin more efficiently for future medicines.

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The study: Floral scent chemodiversity is associated with high floral visitor but low bacterial richness on flowers

the Oyster Mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) digests PET plastic, often found in bottles and packaging; the Turkey Tail Mushroom (Trametes versicolor) eats LDPE plastic, commonly used in grocery bags; and the Split Gill Mushroom (Schizophyllum commune) dissolves PUR plastic, used in foams and coatings. These fungi convert plastic molecules into simple carbon-based compounds. After decomposition, they leave no toxic waste behind, and the result is clean, organic matter suitable for cultivation and food production.

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October 20 marks International Sloth Day, a day dedicated to celebrating these enigmatic and often critically endangered creatures.

Gynandromorphs are rare organisms that are half-male and half-female, where each side of the body presents differently, split right down the middle. Gynandromorphs are distinct from hermaphrodites in that hermaphrodite organisms still have bilateral symmetry and naturally have both sex organs. Hermaphroditism is common in some organisms, while gynandromorphism is much rarer.

Environmental scientist Danielle Stevenson is pioneering an alternative to the costly “dig-and-dump” approach that simply moves contaminated soil elsewhere. At fire sites across California, Danielle is harnessing fungi and native plants through a process called mycoremediation—using nature itself to break down pollutants, pull heavy metals from the ground, and help devastated landscapes heal.

Women of the Earth, S2 E3

The modular toilet requires just four maintenance visits a year. Once operational, it's expected to produce around 600 litres of soil and 2,000 litres of liquid fertilizer a year.

"Our study shows that a type of fungus (Rhizophagus irregularis) boosts wetlands' ability to remove PFAS and greatly reduces the environmental risks from 'forever chemicals' left in the outflowing water," said Bo Hu, a corresponding author of the research.

The study