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Cyathus is a genus of fungi in the Nidulariaceae, or bird's nest fungi family. The genus has a widespread distribution and contains about 5 species. They are saprobic, typically found on decaying woody material, dung, or woody plant debris. The fruit bodies resemble tiny bird's nests, containing egg-like structures called peridioles. The peridioles contain spores, and in the case of Cyathus, are attached to the inner surface of the fruit body by a funicular cord.
How to Identify
- Cap
- Cup-shaped, 5-15 mm wide, opening at the top.
- Gills
- Absent
- Stem
- Absent
- Flesh
- Thin and inconspicuous.
- Fruiting body
- Small, bird's nest-like structure with peridioles inside.
- Habitat
- Decaying wood, plant debris, dung.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Smooth exterior, inner surface contains peridioles.
- Growth Form: Gregarious (growing in groups)
- Spore Print: White
- Body color: Brown to grayish-brown exterior, whitish to yellowish peridioles.
- Odor: Not distinctive
- Flesh bruises: Not applicable
- Height: Up to 1 cm
- Cap Diameter: 5-15 mm
- Nutrient gathering: Saprobic
Safe
SafeNon-toxic, but not typically consumed due to small size and texture.
Quick Check
- Odor: Not distinctive.
- Fruiting: Cup-shaped with egg-like structures inside.
- Substrate: Decaying wood, plant debris, dung.
Where to Find
Decaying organic matter
Found on decaying wood, plant debris, and occasionally dung.
Finding Tips
Habitat
Look for small, cup-shaped structures with 'eggs' inside.
Moisture
Check areas with high moisture and decaying plant material.
Similar Species
Crucibulum laeve
cup fungi
Also known as: Splash Cups
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Basidiomycota
- Class
- Agaricomycetes
- Order
- Agaricales
- Family
- Nidulariaceae
- Genus
- Cyathus
Storage Information
- Max Temperature: N/A
- Freezing duration: N/A
- Min Temperature: N/A
- Refrigeration: N/A
How to Clean
Not typically consumed; cleaning not applicable.
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