Schizophyllum commune, a globally widespread species of fungus, possesses over twenty-three thousand distinct mating types, effectively meaning it has thousands of different sexes.

A closer look

Schizophyllum commune, a globally widespread species of fungus, possesses over twenty-three thousand distinct mating types, effectively meaning it has thousands of different sexes. This incredible genetic diversity prevents inbreeding and ensures that any two individuals of this species that meet have an almost perfect ninety-eight percent chance of being reproductively compatible. While humans are out here fiercely debating gender identity and struggling to find a single decent match on dating apps, a literal mushroom has optimized its genetic code to guarantee it almost never gets rejected. This fungus grows on dead wood, does absolutely nothing of intellectual value, and still has a vastly superior reproductive strategy than the entirety of the human race. It is deeply humbling to know that a mindless blob of mycelium understands diversity and inclusion better than any corporate human resources department in existence