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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.
How to Identify
- Cap
- N/A (no cap)
- Gills
- Absent
- Stem
- Absent
- Flesh
- Insignificant due to small size.
- Fruiting body
- Cup-shaped with egg-like peridioles inside.
- Habitat
- Decaying wood, plant debris, or dung.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Smooth
- Growth Form: Gregarious (growing in groups)
- Spore Print: White
- Body color: White to yellowish-brown
- Odor: Not distinctive
- Flesh bruises: Not applicable
- Height: Up to 1 cm
- Cap Diameter: 2-8 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 peridioles
- Substrate: Decaying wood or plant debris
Where to Find
Woody Debris
Decaying wood, plant debris, or dung
Gardens and Forests
Gardens, forests, and areas with decaying organic matter
Finding Tips
Identify the Nest
Look for small, cup-shaped fungi with egg-like structures inside.
Check Substrate
Check areas with decaying wood or plant debris.
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
These fungi are not typically consumed, so cleaning is not applicable.
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