Jelly fungus facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Jelly fungi |
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| A jelly fungus (Tremella cf. fuciformis) | |
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Agaricomycotina
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Jelly fungi are a fascinating group of fungi that get their name from their unique, jelly-like appearance. They are not all closely related, but they share this special look. Their fruiting bodies can be leafy or have many branches, and they feel rubbery and gelatinous.
One cool thing about jelly fungi is how they react to water. When they dry out, they become hard and shriveled. But if they get wet again, they magically return to their original squishy shape!
Contents
What Are Jelly Fungi?
Jelly fungi are a type of fungi that belong to different groups within the subphylum Agaricomycotina. They are called "jelly fungi" because of their unusual growth habit. Their bodies are often wobbly, like jelly.
How Do Jelly Fungi Look?
The fruiting bodies of these fungi can look like leaves or have many irregular branches. They are usually soft and gelatinous. Some types might feel a bit rubbery.
What Happens When They Dry Out?
When jelly fungi lose water, they become very hard and shriveled. They might look like a dried-up piece of something you wouldn't recognize.
How Do They Get Their Shape Back?
If a dried-up jelly fungus gets wet again, it absorbs the water. This makes it swell up and return to its original jelly-like form. It's like they come back to life!
Can You Eat Jelly Fungi?
Some types of jelly fungi are safe to eat. It's rare to find a poisonous jelly fungus. However, many kinds don't taste very good or have a strange texture.
Edible Jelly Fungi
A few species are quite popular to eat. For example, Tremella fuciformis is a well-known edible jelly fungus. People often use it in soups and vegetable dishes. It's even considered a special ingredient in some cultures!
