Cyathus stercoreus

Cyathus stercoreus Fruchtk%C3%B6rper

Cyathus stercoreus is a species of fungus in the family Agaricaceae. It is commonly known as the "dung-loving bird's nest fungus" due to its preference for growing on dung and its distinctive nest-like fruiting bodies.

Description

Cyathus stercoreus produces small, cup-shaped fruiting bodies that resemble tiny bird's nests. These fruiting bodies, known as peridia, are typically 4-8 mm in diameter and 6-10 mm tall. The outer surface of the peridium is covered with fine, grayish hairs, while the inner surface is smooth and dark brown to black.

Inside the peridium are several small, lens-shaped structures called peridioles, which contain the spores. The peridioles are typically 1-2 mm in diameter and are attached to the inner surface of the peridium by a funicular cord, which helps in the dispersal of the spores.

Habitat and Distribution

Cyathus stercoreus is saprobic, meaning it feeds on decaying organic matter. It is commonly found growing on herbivore dung, particularly that of cows, horses, and deer. It can also be found on decaying plant material, such as wood chips and mulch.

This species has a cosmopolitan distribution and can be found in various regions around the world, including North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Cyathus stercoreus begins with the dispersal of spores from the peridioles. When the peridioles are ejected from the peridium, they are carried away by rain or other mechanical means. Once they land on a suitable substrate, such as dung or decaying plant material, the spores germinate and form a new mycelium, which eventually produces new fruiting bodies.

Ecological Role

As a saprobic fungus, Cyathus stercoreus plays an important role in the decomposition of organic matter. By breaking down dung and other decaying materials, it helps recycle nutrients back into the ecosystem, promoting soil health and fertility.

Taxonomy

Cyathus stercoreus was first described by the German mycologist Christian Hendrik Persoon in 1801. It belongs to the genus Cyathus, which is part of the family Agaricaceae.

Similar Species

Cyathus stercoreus can be distinguished from other species in the genus Cyathus by its preference for dung and its dark brown to black inner peridium. Other similar species include Cyathus olla and Cyathus striatus, which have different habitat preferences and morphological characteristics.