Crystal Brain Fungus: A Unique and Mysterious Jelly Fungus
What is Crystal Brain Fungus?
Crystal brain fungus is a fascinating jelly fungus that gets its name from its unusual appearance. It looks like a translucent, gelatinous brain, and it’s often found on dead or decaying hardwood trees. The scientific name for crystal brain fungus is Myxarium nucleatum, and it’s a member of the Exidiaceae family of fungi.
Where Does Crystal Brain Fungus Grow?
Crystal brain fungus is most commonly found in Europe, but it’s also starting to appear in North America. It prefers to grow on dead and decaying hardwood branches or trunks, and it’s especially fond of sycamore, beech, and ash trees. You might also find it on alder, willow, hawthorn, elm, oak, or elder trees.
How Does Crystal Brain Fungus Grow?
Crystal brain fungus starts out as small, scattered, colorless pustules on dead wood. These pustules are filled with mineral inclusions, which give the fungus its characteristic sparkly appearance. As the fungus grows, the pustules merge together to form larger, sheet-like masses that can be up to 2.5 inches across. These masses are often translucent white or pink, but they can also turn brown as they age.
Is Crystal Brain Fungus Edible or Toxic?
Scientists have not yet determined whether crystal brain fungus is edible. Some jelly fungi are edible, so it’s possible that crystal brain fungus is as well. However, it’s important to note that it has not been confirmed to be safe to eat, so it’s best to avoid consuming it.
There are no reports of crystal brain fungus being toxic, but it’s always a good idea to err on the side of caution and avoid eating any wild mushrooms or fungi unless you are absolutely certain that they are safe.
Will Crystal Brain Fungus Harm My Trees?
Crystal brain fungus is a saprophytic fungus, which means that it feeds on dead and decaying organic matter. It does not attack healthy trees, so it will not harm your trees unless they are already dead or dying. In fact, crystal brain fungus can actually be beneficial to trees by helping to break down dead wood and recycle nutrients back into the soil.
How to Identify Crystal Brain Fungus
Here are some key characteristics to look for when identifying crystal brain fungus:
- Appearance: Translucent, gelatinous, brain-like masses
- Color: White, pink, or brown
- Size: Individual fruit bodies up to half an inch high, fused bodies up to 4 inches or more in diameter
- Habitat: Dead or decaying hardwood trees
- Season: All year round, but most common in spring and fall
Other Interesting Facts About Crystal Brain Fungus
- Crystal brain fungus is also known as granular jelly roll.
- It is a member of the Ascomycota phylum, which includes yeasts, molds, and other fungi.
- Crystal brain fungus is not known to have any medicinal properties.
- It is a relatively common fungus, but it can be difficult to find due to its small size and inconspicuous appearance.
Conclusion
Crystal brain fungus is a fascinating and unique fungus that plays an important role in the decomposition of dead wood in forests. Although it is not edible and should not be consumed, it is a harmless fungus that poses no threat to trees or humans.