FungiHighest rank in taxonomy. Groups all life into domains: Animalia, Plantae, Fungi, etc.IUCN LCInternational Union for Conservation of Nature — the world authority on species extinction risk, using standardized criteria. — Least Concern — widespread and abundant; not at immediate risk of extinction.In ProgressCurrent stage of this record in the editorial review workflow. Recent Sighting
Daldinia concentrica
King Alfred's Cakes / Cramp Balls
(Bolton) Ces. & De Not., 1863
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
Daldinia concentrica is an unmistakable ascomycete fungus that resembles pieces of charcoal attached to wood. The fruiting body (stroma) is globose or hemispherical, 2 to 10 cm in diameter, with a smooth surface that matures from reddish-brown to a dull coal-black. Its most fascinating feature is revealed when cut: the interior shows silver and black concentric rings reminiscent of a tree's growth rings. The surface is dotted with tiny pores (perithecia) where spores are produced. It is a hard, dry, and persistent fungus that lacks a stalk and grows directly on decaying broad-leaved tree logs. Its 'burnt cake' appearance is a clear sign of its identity in the forest ecosystem.
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Julia Trouin
TaxonomyBiological classification ranks placing this species within the tree of life, from Kingdom down to Genus.
PhylumRank below Kingdom. Groups organisms sharing a fundamental body plan (e.g., Chordata = vertebrates and some invertebrates).Ascomycota
ClassRank below Phylum. Subdivides by structural traits (e.g., Mammalia, Aves, Reptilia, Insecta).Sordariomycetes
OrderRank below Class. Groups related families sharing common ancestry (e.g., Carnivora, Primates).Xylariales
FamilyRank below Order. Groups closely related genera (e.g., Felidae = cats, Canidae = dogs).Hypoxylaceae
GenusRank just above Species. The first word in the two-part binomial scientific name.Daldinia
Taxonomic AuthorityThe scientist who first formally described and published this species, followed by the year of publication.(Bolton) Ces. & De Not., 1863
Record Completeness
93%Coming soon
Ecology & StatusHow this species lives: habitat preferences, diet, behavior, population status, and role in its ecosystem.
OriginWhether the species is native (evolved here), endemic (found only here), or introduced by human activity.
Native
Population TrendDirection of change in population size over time: increasing, stable, decreasing, or unknown.
Stable
Trophic RolePosition in the food chain: producer, herbivore, carnivore, omnivore, decomposer, or parasite.
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EdibilityWhether this mushroom is edible, toxic, hallucinogenic, or of unknown safety. Never eat based solely on this data.
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Cap ShapeShape of the mushroom cap (pileus): convex, flat, umbonate, funnel-shaped, bell-shaped, etc.
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Hymenium TypeThe spore-bearing surface of a fungus: gills, pores, teeth, ridges, smooth, or wrinkled.
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Fruiting SeasonTime of year when this species typically reproduces or flowers.
Year Round
Recent SightingsWhether this species has been observed in the wild in Costa Rica within recent years.
Yes
Habitat SummaryOverview of the specific ecosystems and environments where this species is found in Costa Rica. Multi-lang
It inhabits deciduous and mixed forests, growing almost exclusively on logs and fallen branches of broad-leaved trees, with a marked preference for the Fraxinus (ash) genus, though it colonizes other hardwoods. It prefers environments with seasonal humidity, but its structure allows it to persist in dry conditions. In Costa Rica, it is found in mid and low-elevation forested areas, taking advantage of decaying wood from native species year-round.SubstrateThe organic material or host organism this fungus colonizes and decomposes. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!BehaviourDaily activity patterns, movement, territory use, foraging style, and seasonal behavioral changes. Multi-lang
It is a saprophytic hardwood decomposer causing white rot. It plays a crucial role in carbon recycling by breaking down complex wood polymers. Unlike other fungi, it has a prolonged and nocturnal spore release cycle. It serves as habitat for specialist insects, especially moths of the Tineidae family that feed on its structure.Physical Measures
Length (cm)
2.0 - 10.0 cm
Hymenium StructuresMacro photographs of the spore-bearing surfaces used for mushroom identification.
No hymenium surface images available.
Evolutionary AdaptationsInherited traits and behaviors that improve the species' survival and reproduction in its specific environment. Multi-lang
Zoned Interior for Water Storage: The internal concentric rings act as moisture reservoirs. This adaptation allows the fungus to continue releasing spores during drought periods, even when the external environment is arid, giving it an advantage over fleshier fungi.
Protective Carbonized Stroma: Its hard, black surface is highly resistant to insect attack and UV radiation, protecting the internal perithecia while the wood slowly decomposes.
Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Multi-lang
Intensive forestry practices: Removal of dead wood and overly clean forest management reduce available substrates for this fungus.
Interesting FactsSurprising or notable facts that highlight what makes this species unique or ecologically important. Multi-lang
King Alfred's Cakes: The name comes from an English legend where King Alfred the Great, hiding in a cottage, let some cakes burn that he was supposed to watch. Seeing these black fungi, people joked they were the king's burnt cakes.
Natural Tinder: Once dry, these fungi are excellent for starting fires. They can maintain a smoldering coal internally for a long time without a flame, allowing ancient fire-carriers to transport fire between locations.