Threat to truffles leaves a bad taste

Truffles are called the "king of fungi" for good reason. Aficionados pay a king's ransom for these underground mushrooms that resemble stones in appearance.

Specialty markets in Europe open in December or January, when the truffles are mature. Thousands of fans and sellers gather to trade, with prices averaging $2,000 to $3,000 a kilogram.   More Read