Phyllotopsis nidulans

Phyllotopsis nidulans (Pers.) Singer, is a saprobic fungus that typically grows in overlapping clusters on recently dead trees.

Phyllotopsis nidulans in its natural habitat, decomposing a fallen tree.
Figure 1. Phyllotopsis nidulans in its natural habitat, decomposing a fallen tree.

Phyllotopsis nidulans (Pers.) Singer

Ecology and Morphology: Phyllotopsis nidulans (Pers.) Singer, is a saprobic fungus that typically grows in overlapping clusters on recently dead trees. These fungi look very similar to Pleurotus ostreatus at first glance as both have a shell shaped basidiocarp, the margin of the fruiting body is curled towards the gills and no stipe is present. However, the hirsute basidiocarp and orange color distinguish this fungi from P. ostreatus. Likewise, Phyllotopsis nidulans will sometimes produce a foul smell when it is collected and unlike P. ostreatus, P. nidulans has a pink spore print. I did not notice a foul smell from my collection though. These fungi are not considered edible. Overall an interesting a beautiful fungus to find in the fall. 

 

Phyllotopsis nidulans Figure 2
Figure 2. Close up and gill shot of Phyllotopsis nidulans. Notice the margin of the pileus and how it is curved towards the gills.

 

Taxonomy:

  • Kingdom:  Fungi
  • Division: Basidiomycota
  • Class: Agaricomycetes
  • Order: Agaricales
  • Family: Tricholomataceae
  • Genus: Phyllotopsis
  • Species: P. nidulans

 

 

Literature:

 

Did you find this article useful?

You Might Also Be Interested In

Tag List
  • bonito lab collections blog,
  • bonito lab
  • follow us on instagram
Michigan State University
  • Spartans Will.
  • © Michigan State University

MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer, committed to achieving excellence through a diverse workforce and inclusive culture that encourages all people to reach their full potential.

Michigan State University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status. Issued in furtherance of MSU Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Quentin Tyler, Director, MSU Extension, East Lansing, MI 48824. This information is for educational purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names does not imply endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned.

The 4-H Name and Emblem have special protections from Congress, protected by code 18 USC 707.

We comply with the Federal Trade Commission 1998 Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA).