Species details

Jelly tooth

Pseudohydnum gelatinosum

Traditionally edible
Jelly tooth – Pseudohydnum gelatinosum

Photo: Holger Krisp · CC BY 3.0 · Photo source · License

Description

A small shell- to fan-shaped fungus with watery translucent jelly-like flesh and fine teeth on the underside.

Identification features

The cap is whitish to brownish and may be nearly stemless; densely packed soft grey-white teeth hang downward.

Identification checklist

Check the entire fruitbody for identification. A small shell- to fan-shaped fungus with watery translucent jelly-like flesh and fine teeth on the underside. The cap is whitish to brownish and may be nearly stemless; densely packed soft grey-white teeth hang downward. Typical habitat: On decaying wood, especially conifers, on stumps and fallen logs in damp woodland.

How to separate similar species

Compare especially with these similar species: Tremella species, Exidia species, other jelly fungi. Check the entire fruitbody, spore-bearing surface, stem, texture, changes after bruising and habitat. A single feature or photograph is not enough for reliable identification.

Habitat

On decaying wood, especially conifers, on stumps and fallen logs in damp woodland.

Fruiting period

August, September, October, November

Similar species

  • Tremella species
  • Exidia species
  • other jelly fungi

Extended-description sources