Calocera viscosa

Calocera viscosa, commonly known as the yellow stagshorn, is a jelly fungus, a member of the Dacrymycetales, an order of fungi characterized by their unique "tuning fork" basidia.

Calocera viscosa
At Durmitor National Park, Montenegro
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Fungi
Division:	Basidiomycota
Class:	Dacrymycetes
Order:	Dacrymycetales
Family:	Dacrymycetaceae
Genus:	Calocera
Species:	C. viscosa
Binomial name
Calocera viscosa (Pers.) Fr. (1827). According to MicoBank the correct binomial name is Clavaria viscosa Pers (1794)[1]

Calocera viscosa
float Mycological characteristics
	smooth hymenium
	no distinct cap
	hymenium attachment is irregular or not applicable
	stipe is bare
	spore print is white
	ecology is saprotrophic
	edibility: edible, but unpalatable

It has bright orange, yellow or occasionally white branching basidiocarps, which are somewhat gelatinous in texture and slimy to the touch (hence the specific name). It is relatively large for a jelly fungus, and can reach up to ten centimetres in height.[2] It is widespread and common, and its bright colour makes it stand out in its habitat. It grows on decaying conifer wood, typically stumps and roots, although this may not be obvious if the wood is covered in leaf litter. It fruits throughout the year, but is most commonly seen in autumn.

It is not poisonous, but its tough gelatinous texture and nondescript taste and odour make it unattractive as a food. Its striking colour has led to it being used as a garnish on occasion, however.[3]

References

1. http://www.mycobank.org/BioloMICS.aspx?Link=T&TableKey=14682616000000067&Rec=77924&Fields=All Mycobank, retrieved 16 August 2012
2. http://www.first-nature.com/fungi/calocera-viscosa.php First Nature, retrieved 16 August 2012
3. http://www.mushroomdiary.co.uk/2011/10/yellow-stagshorn-fungus/ Mushroom Diary, retrieved 16 August 2012