About this fungus
White Brain Fungus is a fungus in the Auriculariaceae family. Its habitat and field characteristics are summarised below.
A glistening opaque-white jelly fungus forming cushions and fused brain-like folds on dead broadleaf branches.
What to check
Confirm a firm gelatinous texture, smooth white to translucent lobes and the absence of distinct opaque mineral granules within the jelly. It shrinks greatly when dry and revives after rain. There are no gills, pores, ring or volva.
Variation
Wet fruit bodies are plump and glossy; dry ones collapse to a thin pale film and can be almost invisible. Older lobes may become cream or faintly grey.
Lookalikes
Crystal Brain contains visible white calcium-oxalate granules and is generally clearer and softer. Pale Tremella can overlap in shape, while microscopy or DNA may be needed for atypical white jelly fungi.
Habitat and range
Saprotrophic on dead attached or fallen broadleaf branches, especially beech and ash, mainly during cool damp periods in Europe. The current name is Descidia thuretiana; Exidia thuretiana is the long-used synonym retained by the app taxon key.
Food safety
Inedible.