Genus
Sphaerobolus (Cannonball fungi)
Sphaerobolus stellatus. Photo: (c) kyle_sipes, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC)
Sphaerobolus is a genus of fungi in the family Geastraceae. Commonly known as the “shotgun fungus” or “cannonball fungus”, species discharge their spores with explosive force. Discharged spore sacs are sticky and have a tendency to strongly adhere to whatever surface they encounter, making them a nuisance to homeowners, pressure washing contractors, landscape mulch producers and insurance companies.