Claviceps purpurea

Claviceps purpurea is a type of fungus that infects cereal grains like rye, wheat, and barley. When the flowers of these grains are infected, the fungus replaces the grain with green or purple spore-producing structures called sclerotia. These sclerotia contain compounds that can cause poisoning if consumed, leading to a condition called ergotism, which affects blood flow and causes symptoms like hallucinations and muscle cramps. Historically, ergot contamination caused health issues among populations consuming contaminated grains. Today, the fungus is studied both for its toxic effects and for its potential use in producing medicinal compounds like ergot alkaloids.