Lobster mushrooms are a fascinating and distinctive species that captivate with their vibrant colour and unique transformation. Although not a true mushroom, they are formed through a parasitic relationship. A fungus called Hypomyces lactifluorum attacks and colonises other mushroom species, causing them to undergo a dramatic metamorphosis, resembling the appearance of a lobster. The resulting mushrooms showcase a striking range of bright reddish-orange to deep orange hues, often with an irregular and textured surface that mimics the intricate shell of a lobster.

Beyond their eye-catching appearance, lobster mushrooms possess a firm and meaty texture that adds substance to various dishes. This texture contributes to their versatility in culinary applications, allowing them to hold their shape and withstand various cooking methods. When it comes to taste, lobster mushrooms offer a savoury and slightly nutty flavour, which becomes increasingly fishier as the mushroom ages.

Lobster mushrooms can be found in forests across North America and Europe, often growing near or under coniferous trees. They thrive in a symbiotic relationship with their host mushrooms and the surrounding environment. The precise conditions and specific mushroom species that undergo the parasitic transformation contribute to the unique characteristics of each lobster mushroom.