A small slime mold that grows on top of rotting wood. The colour varies greatly and changes as the slime mold matures at first pinkish-gray to bright cinnabar-red when young. At this stage the flesh is a pinkish, paste-like substance (like toothpaste?). With maturity the fruit body becomes yellow-brown or olive-brown and the spore mass becomes powdery and pinkish-gray to ochre in mass.
Note: This non edible species is not a fungus or mushroom It belongs to a group called slime molds, or myxomycetes—a group of funguslike organisms that at one time were regarded as animals, then thought to be plants, then fungi. Now, because of DNA studies, slime molds are believed to be closer to the protozoa. They are studied by botanists and mycologists. Included here as I do not have a better grouping for it
How to identify Lycogala epidendrum?
What habitats does Lycogala epidendrum live in?
Scattered to clustered on well-rotted wood
What is the distribution of Lycogala epidendrum?
world wide
How big does Lycogala epidendrum grow?
This slime mold forms fruit bodies 3-15 mm wide.
Disclaimer: A lot of work goes into trying to identify and ensure accurate identifications are made and that the listed Descriptions, Sizes, Habitats and Distribution information is as accurate and valid as possible. Unfortunately, information in this arena is ever changing and as such no guarantee can be offered that it is correct or currently valid as a result the information is provided as a guide, and it is always suggested that you do a little research to ensure you have the latest and most accurate information. View the reference's or bibliography I welcome any feedback and comments on the information provided.