Tarzetta Cupularis' Return

Day 253: Some of my readers may recall that last year around this time, I found an odd little cup fungus which, with the help of experts, I finally identified as Tarzetta cupularis (Elf Goblet or Grey Goblet). It is rare in Washington and perhaps elsewhere, and in fact is only known from three locations in the state, two of which are in Pierce County: this site where it was found by me in 2020, and Pack Forest where it was found in 1987. The species is rather small, as you can see by comparing it to the fir needles in the photo, and even though I had marked its spot with my GPS, I knew I'd have my work cut out for me trying to find it again this year. I've had my eye on the site for a month now, making passes through as I search for slime molds. Until yesterday, I had had no luck. It's possible I overlooked these two specimens earlier because they were roughly 15 feet from my previous find. That discovery suggests that the mycorrhiza extends at least that far, but a further hands-and-knees search of a 20'-diameter circle failed to yield up any others. Tarzetta cupularis is not known for growing in large clusters, but rather as individuals or low-number groupings. Two is cause for celebration!

Nature's Ear, Auricularia Auricula-Judae

Day 144: It would seem that word of my endeavours to stimulate interest in the natural sciences has reached the ear of Nature herself. It's nice to know Ma's listening. This delightful discovery from the South Swofford Trail was the most ear-like example among dozens of a spring cup-fungus known as Auricularia auricula. It is purportedly edible, but you won't see me going there since most cups are rather leathery even in their tenderest moments. In our area, it occurs on both elder and maple, more commonly on decaying wood than on living. The interior of the cup is pinkish-brown to brown in age, and the exterior darkens as the fungus matures. It has a lengthy and tedious taxonomic history, and indeed its proper classification is still under debate. In some mycological references, it may be listed as "Auricularia auricula-judae," i.e., Judas' Ear, one of many other common names, some of which are less than racially sensitive. Other sources may refer to the North American species as "Auricularia americana." It is currently listed in the Burke Herbarium as Auricularia auricula, so I'm sticking with that.