barometer earthstar
A species of fungus (Astraeus hygrometricus) known for its hygroscopic rays that open and close with humidity. The name is usually written in katakana as ツチグリ.
Barometer earthstars sometimes appear on the ground after rain.
This mushroom is called tsuchiguri, and its shape changes with humidity.
Katakana spelling is common for this organism name; usually written in kana.
Kanji form is rare and may not be widely recognized; the word is usually written in kana.
The name ツチグリ (土栗) literally means 'earth chestnut', likely from its round, chestnut-like appearance when closed. The exact origin is uncertain.