An exciting new addition is set to be the "hot topic" of the Glow Marwell event.

The Enchanted Tree, complete with fluttering butterflies and magical mushrooms, is expected to capture the attention of visitors to Marwell Zoo.

The feature is animated with a network of lights that represent the natural phenomenon of mycelium networks.

These networks, often referred to as the "woodwide web," are a "complicated web of fungus" that allow trees to communicate and share resources.

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The Enchanted Tree will be an exciting addition (Image: Marwell Zoo) Dr Heidi Mitchell, head of conservation impact at Marwell Wildlife, said: "Fungi are everywhere, even inside us, and everywhere in the world.

"They connect living things in a way that speaks to the very mystery of life on Earth, and they have been playing this role for a billion years.

"Here at Marwell, we celebrate fungi as the founders of woodland ecosystems in our wonderful Glow Marwell exhibit."

The Enchanted Tree is just one of the features of the event, which will see the return of stepping stones, a light tunnel and music.

Father Christmas will also be in attendance at Marwell Hall and a new VR headset experience will be available in the Science and Learning Centre.

Nicky Cole, senior events manager at Marwell Zoo, said: "This year’s event is set to be more interactive than ever before with some family favourites returning, some getting bigger and lots of brand-new content.

"Using our popular winter light event to demonstrate the wonders of nature around us is a great way to engage our guests and spread awareness of how connecting with nature, however you choose to do it, can be beneficial for everyone – even the trees."

Additional costs apply to Father Christmas, UV face paints, and the VR headset experience.

Visit marwell.org.uk for tickets and information.