Colony of Fungus with Manganese Deposits (IMAGE) Harvard University Caption This colony of the fungus S. aciculosa shows manganese oxide deposits at the base of the reproductive bodies. Researchers have shown that superoxide transforms manganese into its environmentally useful mineral state. Credit Photo courtesy of Colleen Hansel Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.