Fungus that looks like an alien creature spotted in Guizhou

On Tuesday a social media user posted photos of an alien-looking plant, and asked for help identifying the species. The crimson creature was found growing in a natural reserve in Libo County in Guizhou Province. An expert responded that it is a fungus called Clathrus archeri, commonly known as the Octopus stinkhorn or the Devil's fingers. The tendrils of the fungus turn from white to pinkish-red as it matures. Originally from Australia and New Zealand, the species is not poisonous, but it emits out foul smell similar to rotting flesh. [Photo: Chinanews.com]