Spores Get a Lift

Mushrooms have the challenging task of dispersing spores, typically from heights no more than a few centimeters above the ground. At that altitude, viscosity and friction with the ground mean that air barely moves, if it does at all. And mushrooms rely on a wide range of methods, from explosive launches to rain assistance to making their own weather. Every one of these methods gives spores a lift in altitude to reach higher winds and greater dispersal. (Image credit: A. Bejczi/CUPOTY; via Colossal)