Crystal Brain Fungus - Exidia nucleata

Description

This is a translucent-white jelly fungus whose principal fieldmark is the presence of whitish nodules in the context. It can occur in extensive patches, becoming convoluted and brain-like in shape. Care is needed to separate it from similar species.

Similar Species

White Brain (Exidia thuretiana)

Identification difficulty
ID checklist (your specimen should have all of these features)

Check for white granules or inclusions in the fruiting body

Recording advice

The granules can be hard to photograph - it may help to collect a sample and cut it open

Habitat

On decaying wet wood

When to see it

Seen in late autumn and winter

UK Status

Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.

VC55 Status

Fairly common in Leicestershire and Rutland.

Leicestershire & Rutland Map

MAP KEY:

Yellow squares = NBN records (all known data)
Coloured circles = NatureSpot records: 2025+ | 2020-2024 | pre-2020

UK Map

Species profile

Common names
Crystal Brain
Species group:
Fungi
Kingdom:
Fungi
Order:
Auriculariales
Family:
Auriculariaceae
Records on NatureSpot:
117
First record:
14/11/2008 (Calow, Graham)
Last record:
21/01/2025 (Graves, Hazel)

Total records by month

% of records within its species group

10km squares with records

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