Bird's-nest Fungi (Cyathus sect. Eucyathus) | Project Noah

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Photo by Christine Y.

Published on Project Noah

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Field Notes

Description:

Bird's-nest fungi are so called because they resemble birds' nests with eggs inside. However, the "eggs" are actually seed-like cases, called peridioles that contain the gleba. The "nests" are splash cups, which disperse the eggs when rain falls in them. The nests start out as closed structures with lids that open to allow for spore dispersal.

Habitat:

Growing in wood chips in a rural yard.

Reference Links:

Cyathus - Wikipedia

Species ID Suggestions

Comments (6)

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I agree Sarah!

Hard to pick a favorite fungi for me....but gosh....these come close! ;)

Thank you Machi

Here's a good key you might want to try: http://www.mushroomexpert.com/birdsnests.html

Ha! Yes, thank you :)

Just saw you on Mushroom Observer! :) Yes, definitely Nidulariaceae.

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