Elaphomyces

Elaphomyces (soil ball fungus) is a subterranean fungus (Ascomycota).

Common name: Soil ball fungus,
Scientific name: Elaphomyces granulatus
Japanese name: Tsuchidango
Classification: Fungi, Ascomycota, Eurotiomycetes,
Eurotiales, Elaphomycetaceae, Elaphomyces, E. granulatus

Fungi Ascomycota Eurotiomycetes Eurotiales
Elaphomycetaceae Elaphomyces E. granulatus

Habitat: Underground in forests
Appearance: Produces hard, spherical fruiting bodies
Life cycle: Subterranean fungus (Ascomycota)

It is a symbiotic fungus that forms ectomycorrhizae with trees such as pine,
and is known for serving as a host for Cordyceps fungi, such as Cordyceps sinensis.
Unlike truffles (Truffel),
it is not edible,
and is characterized by granular protrusions on its surface.