Stalked Puffball-In-Aspic

calostoma cinnabarinum

The Stalked Puffball-In-Aspic, scientifically known as Calostoma cinnabarinum, is a captivating and visually distinct fungus found in specific woodland ecosystems. Unlike typical puffballs, this species boasts a prominent, often reddish stalk and is encased in a unique gelatinous layer during its early development, giving it its memorable 'in-aspic' moniker. This vibrant fungus plays a crucial ecological role as a mycorrhizal partner, forming a symbiotic relationship with the roots of certain trees. It facilitates the exchange of essential nutrients from the soil to its host trees, receiving carbohydrates in return. Its striking appearance, combining a bright red spore sac with a jelly-like sheath and a textured stalk, makes it a fascinating find for any nature enthusiast.

Habitat: This species thrives on the forest floor in deciduous and mixed forests, commonly found among moss or leaf litter, typically forming symbiotic associations with oak or pine trees.

Appearance

Calostoma cinnabarinum is instantly recognizable by its vivid cinnabar red to orange-red spore sac, which is typically spherical to slightly flattened, measuring about 1 to 2.5 cm in diameter. This colorful cap is supported by a distinctive, often ribbed or reticulated stalk that stands 3 to 6 cm tall and 0.5 to 1.5 cm thick, varying in color from pale yellow to reddish-orange. A key identifying feature, especially in younger specimens, is the thick, transparent, jelly-like layer that encases the developing fruiting body, giving it a glistening, gelatinous appearance.

KingdomFungiPhylumBasidiomycotaClassAgaricomycetesOrderBoletalesFamilySclerodermataceaeGenusCalostoma

Stalked Puffball-In-Aspic

Interesting facts

Its remarkably vibrant cinnabar red color is due to unique pigments, making it one of the most visually striking fungi found in its native woodlands.

The 'aspic' in its common name refers to the clear, jelly-like outer layer encasing the young fruiting body, which resembles a savory gelatin.

The genus name 'Calostoma' is derived from Greek, meaning 'beautiful mouth,' a direct reference to its elegant and pronounced apical pore.

Unlike many puffballs that release spores from a torn surface, this species has a distinctive, precise apical pore at the top of its spore sac for spore ejection.

Special abilities

Upon reaching maturity, the internal spore mass dries to a fine powder. External disturbances, such as raindrops or passing animals, can cause a small puff of spores to be ejected through an apical pore, facilitating dispersal.

The fungus forms an ectomycorrhizal relationship with the roots of host trees, efficiently exchanging critical soil nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen for the carbohydrates produced by the trees through photosynthesis.

The developing fruiting body is enveloped in a unique, thick, clear gelatinous layer. This sheath is believed to provide vital protection against desiccation and physical damage, ensuring optimal development in fluctuating environmental conditions.

Measurements & details

Length: 3-8 cm
Weight: 0.001-0.01 kg

Diet & Feeding

The Stalked Puffball-In-Aspic primarily obtains its nutritional requirements through a symbiotic ectomycorrhizal association with the root systems of specific host trees. It supplements this by absorbing decaying organic matter from the surrounding forest soil, contributing to nutrient recycling.

Primary Foods

Carbohydrates (from host trees)
Nitrogen compounds (from soil)
Phosphorus (from soil)
Decomposing leaf litter

Foraging Method

Symbiotic Absorption And Saprotrophic Absorption

Ecological connections

mutualism

Oak Tree

Quercus species

Forms essential ectomycorrhizal associations with its roots, receiving carbohydrates.

mutualism

Pine Tree

Pinus species

Forms essential ectomycorrhizal associations with its roots, receiving carbohydrates.

eaten by

Forest Slugs

Various gastropod species

May feed on the fruiting bodies, potentially aiding in spore dispersal through consumption.

competitor

Soil Bacteria

Various bacterial species

Participates in the decomposition of organic matter within the same soil ecosystem.

Traits

No trait badges are assigned for this object yet.

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

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Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

No special safety notes yet.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to identify Stalked Puffball-In-Aspic?

The easiest way to identify Stalked Puffball-In-Aspic is to use the Snappit nature identifier app.

How long is Stalked Puffball-In-Aspic?

3-8 cm

How much does Stalked Puffball-In-Aspic weigh?

0.001-0.01 kg

What does Stalked Puffball-In-Aspic eat?

Where is Stalked Puffball-In-Aspic usually found?

This species thrives on the forest floor in deciduous and mixed forests, commonly found among moss or leaf litter, typically forming symbiotic associations with oak or pine trees.

How does Stalked Puffball-In-Aspic hunt?

Symbiotic Absorption And Saprotrophic Absorption