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The White Brain Fungus (Tremella fuciformis) is a gelatinous mushroom characterized by its translucent, white to pale yellow, frond-like fruiting body. It is commonly found on dead branches and decaying wood, particularly after rainfall. This fungus is not known to be poisonous and is used in some Asian cuisines.
How to Identify
- Cap
- N/A (gelatinous mass)
- Gills
- Absent
- Stem
- Absent
- Flesh
- Translucent, gelatinous
- Fruiting body
- White to pale yellow, gelatinous, frond-like or brain-like in appearance.
- Habitat
- Decaying wood of broadleaf trees, especially after rain.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Gelatinous, smooth
- Growth Form: Gelatinous mass
- Spore Print: White
- Body color: White to pale yellow
- Odor: Mild, not distinctive
- Flesh bruises: No bruising
- Height: Variable, up to 10 cm
- Cap Diameter: Up to 7.5 cm
- Nutrient gathering: Saprophytic
Safe
SafeNot known to be poisonous, but consumption is not widely practiced outside of specific culinary uses.
Quick Check
- Odor: Mild or absent.
- Fruiting: Gelatinous, white to pale yellow, frond-like.
- Substrate: Decaying wood.
Where to Find
Forests
Decaying wood of broadleaf trees
Woodlands
On dead branches after rainfall
Finding Tips
Habitat
Look for gelatinous, white, frond-like structures on decaying wood.
Timing
Search after periods of rain when the fungus is more hydrated and visible.
Similar Species
Tremella mesenterica
fungus
Also known as: Yellow Brain Fungus
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Basidiomycota
- Class
- Tremellomycetes
- Order
- Tremellales
- Family
- Tremellaceae
- Genus
- Tremella
Storage Information
- Max Temperature: 4°C
- Freezing duration: 3 months
- Min Temperature: -18°C
- Refrigeration: 1 week
How to Clean
Rinse gently under cool water to remove any debris. Pat dry with a clean cloth.
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