Group of Fungi: Cup Fungi

Family: Sarcosomataceae

Latin Name: Galiella rufa (Schwein.) Nannf. & Korf

Common Name: Hairy Rubber Cup

Description: Globose to top-shaped structure when young but opening to become a shallow cup with incurved edges, 3/4–1 1/4 in (2–3 cm) across and 1/4–3/8 in (0.5–1.0 cm) thick, gelatinous texture, outer surface blackish brown, covered with clusters of hairs, inner surface tan to pale orange-brown or reddish brown; stalk lacking or up to 3/8 in (1 cm) long; spores hyaline in mass.

Biological Role: Decomposer of wood.

Habitat: On fallen branches and wood debris of broadleaf trees; usually occurring in small groups.

Geographical Distribution: Widely distributed throughout eastern North America.

Comments: Because of its rather dull color, Galiella rufa often tends to blend in with the leaf litter on the forest floor. However, there is no other similar cup fungus that produces fruiting bodies with an inner surface that is orange-brown or reddish brown and has a somewhat gelatinous texture.