STINKHORN

any fungus of the order Phallales (division Mycota), typified by a phalluslike, ill-smelling fruiting body. Stinkhorns produce odours that attract the flies and other insects that assist in dispersing the reproductive bodies (spores). Their appearance is often sudden; the spore-forming tissue (gleba) can erupt from an underground egg and burst open within an hour, becoming slimy and fetid at maturity. Genera widespread in the temperate zone include Phallus, Mutinus, Dictyophora, Simblum, and Clathrus.