Scientists Discover New Species Near Prospect

Scientists say they've discovered a new species of mushroom living right here in Southern Oregon.

"Unheard of," is what scientists from Southern Oregon University are saying about a new species of mushroom they've discovered living underwater in the Rogue River.

If you look north of Prospect, about a foot and half deep in the cold, flowing waters of the Rogue River, you might see a mushroom that scientists say you won't find anywhere else.

"Psathyrella Aquatica: the first known gilled underwater mushrooms in the world," said Scientist Robert Coffan.

Scientists have identified about 600 similar species of gilled mushroom, but none that live underwater.

Coffan says he didn't set out to find a new species, in fact, he says he was just playing in the water on a family outing.

"I was up in the middle of July, 90 degrees outside, wading around in the water, enjoying myself, and I saw mushrooms growing underwater," he said.

After making the discovery, Coffan and a team of biologists from SOU spent nearly three months observing the mushrooms.

He says they develop and mature near other aquatic vegetation and remain constantly underwater.

He says he's seen the mushrooms spread over about a quarter-mile stretch, growing on wood, gravel and the silty riverbed.

Coffan says this is the type of discovery he'd expect to find in the Amazon, or the bottom of the ocean.

"We've identified a brand new species and a brand new habitat right here in our own backyard,” he added.

Coffan and his team say they're unsure how significant the discovery is.

They say finding a new species in a relatively well-explored area underscores the importance of preserving our natural resources.

While Coffan and his colleagues say they're fairly certain this species is unique, they have many more questions they want to answer.

Next July they plan to be out in the river expanding their study.