Marchandiomyces corallinus

A lichenicolous fungus with pink bulbils on the lichen host thallus, especially Parmelia speices.  

Colour is subjective, especialy in a photograph or in artificial light. Microscopic examination of the contents of the pink material is recommended.  A water drop test has been used to separate this species from Illosporiopsis christianseii; see paper by Ann Claypole for British Lichen Society; link below. 

Erythricium aurantiacum is similar macroascopically, but pale orange; Illosporiopsis christiansenii is bright pink.

Photograph in habitat, ensuring your photo also shows the host species of lichen.  Note habitat and substrate. We recommend microscopic examination - and also see the paper by Ann Claypole of BLS, link in 'Further Information'. 

All year round.

Widespread in Britain.

Uncommon or rarely recorded in Leicestershire and Rutland.

https://britishlichensociety.org.uk/sites/default/files/Marchandiomyces%20corallinus.pdf

Claypole, A.  (?)  Effects of hydration on the reproductive structures of Illosporiopsis christiansenii – the reliability of a simple water-drop test in a binary field key.  Accessed from British Lichen Society website on 11/03/2026.  https://britishlichensociety.org.uk/sites/default/files/2023-11/Illosporiopsis%20christiansenii%20-%20Ann%20Claypole.pdf