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The Crimson Jelly Fungus (Ascocoryne sarcoides) is a fascinating and visually striking species of fungus. It is characterized by its small, gelatinous, and brightly colored fruiting bodies, which typically appear in shades of pink to deep crimson. These fungi are commonly found on decaying wood, particularly on fallen branches and logs of deciduous trees. They play a role in the decomposition of organic matter in forest ecosystems.
How to Identify
- Cap
- N/A (Fruiting body is not differentiated into a cap and stem)
- Gills
- Absent
- Stem
- Absent or rudimentary
- Flesh
- Gelatinous and translucent
- Fruiting body
- Small, gelatinous, and brightly colored (pink to deep crimson)
- Habitat
- Decaying wood of deciduous trees
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Gelatinous and smooth
- Growth Form: Clustered or scattered on decaying wood
- Spore Print: White to pale pink
- Body color: Pink to deep crimson
- Odor: Indistinct
- Flesh bruises: Not applicable
- Height: Up to 1 cm
- Cap Diameter: Up to 2 cm
- Nutrient gathering: Saprophytic
Safe
SafeThe Crimson Jelly Fungus is generally considered non-toxic, but it is not typically consumed due to its small size and gelatinous texture.
Quick Check
- Odor: Indistinct
- Fruiting: Gelatinous, brightly colored fruiting bodies
- Substrate: Decaying wood
Where to Find
Woodland areas
Decaying wood, particularly fallen branches and logs of deciduous trees.
Finding Tips
Habitat
Look for gelatinous, brightly colored fruiting bodies on decaying wood.
Weather
Search in damp or humid conditions, as these fungi thrive in moist environments.
Tree Type
Check areas with a high density of deciduous trees, such as oak, beech, or birch.
Similar Species
Ascocoryne cylichnium
fungus
Also known as: Purple Jellydisc
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Ascomycota
- Class
- Leotiomycetes
- Order
- Helotiales
- Family
- Bulgariaceae
- Genus
- Ascocoryne
Storage Information
- Max Temperature: N/A
- Freezing duration: N/A
- Min Temperature: N/A
- Refrigeration: N/A
How to Clean
Crimson Jelly Fungus is not typically consumed due to its small size and gelatinous texture. Therefore, cleaning instructions are not applicable.
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