Parasitic Fungus

Unusual looking Amanita mushroom that is being attacked by a parasitic fungus, Hypomyces hyalinus. This fungus completely disfigures its host. The infection prevents the expansion of the cap, and causes the cap to fuse to the stem. As a result, the gills are also destroyed and the fruiting body dies without dispersing any spores. This mushroom was about 9cm tall.