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Toothed jelly fungus

Pseudohydnum gelatinosum

A species of Pseudohydnum, Also known as Cat's tongue, Jelly false tooth

This whimsically-named mushroom has a global distribution and a unique appearance. Toothed jelly fungus has a white, translucent - almost spectral - coloration and sports little downward pointing "teeth" on the underside of its cap. Although its toothed underside may scream "hedgehog mushroom", it is actually a member of a separate genus (Pseudohydnum, as opposed to Hydnum).

Cap Diameter:

2 - 6 cm

Odor:

Faint, not particularly noticeable.

General Info About Toothed jelly fungus

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Attributes of Toothed jelly fungus

Cap Diameter

2 - 6 cm

Height

3 - 5 cm

Cap

Cap 2.5 - 6 cm across; kidney-shaped, flat; grayish to brownish; surface smooth

Cap Shape

Convex, Flat

Cap Surfaces

Smooth

Stem

Stem 3 cm long; pale; gelatinous; surface smooth

Stem Shapes

Tapering

Stem Surfaces

Smooth

Flesh

Gelatinous; translucent

Ring

Ringless

Spore Print Color

White

Odor

Faint, not particularly noticeable.

Body Color

Brown

Gray

White

Flesh Bruises

The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.

Growth Form

Solitary, Scattered, Gregarious

Nutrient Gathering

Saprophytic

Substrate

Dead Woods

You can find Toothed jelly fungus by these plants:

Spruces, Firs, Norway spruce

Occurence Habitats

Coniferous Woodland

Species Status

Widely distributed

Endangered Species

How to Identify Toothed jelly fungus

Fruiting Body Immature Fruiting Body Cap

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Habitat of Toothed jelly fungus

The habitat of the toothed jelly fungus is associated with conifers and dark, damp places. The mushroom grows on dead conifer wood, mostly on fallen, decaying logs, but it tends to appear on decaying branches and twigs, or in humus under conifers.

Distribution Area of Toothed jelly fungus

North America,Europe,Central and South America,Asia,Australia,New Zealand

Hunting Values of Toothed jelly fungus

Edibility is disputed. While some guides classify it as edible and others do not, they generally agree that this mushroom lacks any special flavor.

Uses of Toothed jelly fungus

Toothed jelly fungus is recognized as a mushroom with questionable edibility. Its practical uses are limited due to potential risks when consumed, and it's not popular in culinary circles. Collectors should exercise caution, as the safety of ingesting toothed jelly fungus is not well-established. It lacks significant medicinal or traditional applications, and its seasonal availability does not increase its collection value. Always consult an expert before considering the use of toothed jelly fungus.

Scientific Classification of Toothed jelly fungus

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Auriculariales

Family

Genus

Pseudohydnum

Toxicity and Edibility of Toothed jelly fungus

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Edibility of Toothed jelly fungus

This mushroom has been reported to be edible, with a rubbery texture and extremely bland flavor. So flavorless, in fact, that it is not a popular species for consumption by any means.

Similar Species to Toothed jelly fungus

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Tips for Finding Toothed jelly fungus

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When is the Best Time to Find Toothed jelly fungus

To find toothed jelly fungus, search during late summer to fall when the weather is wet, with a preference for cooler temperatures and post-rain conditions.

What are Some Tips for Finding Toothed jelly fungus

Seek out areas with fallen or decomposing conifer trees, such as spruce and pine.
Inspect the logs and stumps in shaded, damp parts of the forest for the presence of toothed jelly fungus.
Check on well-rotted conifer stumps and other coniferous woody remains.
Investigate both standing dead trees and fallen wood, as toothed jelly fungus can grow from both.
Look for toothed jelly fungus growing alone or in groups, which can be an indicator of its presence.

How to Clean and Preserve Toothed jelly fungus

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How to Clean Toothed jelly fungus

To clean toothed jelly fungus, begin by gently rinsing it under cool running water to remove any debris. Pat the mushroom dry with a soft cloth or paper towel, taking care not to damage the delicate structure. It's essential to handle toothed jelly fungus with care to preserve its integrity.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Toothed jelly fungus

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying

Drying Duration

12 - 24 months

Store in airtight containers, cool, dark, low humidity environment.

Dehydrator drying: Even low heat effectively removes moisture while maintaining structure.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of Toothed jelly fungus

Freezing Duration

10 - 12 months

Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Toothed jelly fungus

Refrigerating Methods

Paper Bag Storage, Perforated Plastic Bag Storage, Ventilated Container Storage, Cloth Wrapping

Temperature

2 - 4 ℃

Refrigerating Humidity

90 - 95 %

Refrigerating Duration

5 - 7 days

Paper Bag Storage: Store in loose paper bags for breathability and moisture regulation, avoiding plastic to prevent excess moisture.

Perforated Plastic Bag Storage: Use perforated plastic bags to balance humidity control and air circulation, protecting texture.

Ventilated Container Storage: Line mushrooms in a single layer on a tray, cover with a damp cloth for humidity without suffocation.

Cloth Wrapping: Wrap gently in a dry cloth before placing in the refrigerator to absorb excess moisture, maintaining firmness.

Common Questions People Also Ask

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