fallen log
by Travis Park
after the rain
one green light
Several species of fungi are naturally bioluminescent, producing a soft green glow through a chemical reaction involving the molecules luciferin and luciferase. Although the purpose of this light is still being studied, research suggests it may attract insects that help disperse fungal spores, particularly in dark forest environments.
Further reading:
‘Bioluminescent fungus’, Wikipedia article, available: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bioluminescent_fungus
Author bio:
Travis Park is an Indiana writer whose work has appeared or is forthcoming in Modern Haiku, Ribbons, Presence, Wales Haiku Journal, Leaf Journal, Haikuniverse, and other publications. More of his work can be found on Instagram at @travisparkarchive.