FungiIUCN NEIn Progress Recent Sighting
Cookeina speciosa
Cup Fungus
(Fr.) Dennis, 1947
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
Ascomycete fungus with a cup or deep funnel shape, supported by a short stalk. Its color varies from pale pink to orange-red or magenta. The inner surface is smooth, while the rim of the cup features fine, almost microscopic whitish hairs or cilia.
Added by
Anonymous Curator
Reviewed by
Under Review
Last modified by
Julia Trouin
Other Names (Global)
Hongo de copaCopita roja
Tropical cup fungusPink cupTaxonomy
PhylumAscomycota
ClassPezizomycetes
OrderPezizales
FamilySarcoscyphaceae
GenusCookeina
Taxonomic Authority(Fr.) Dennis, 1947
Ecology & Status
Origin
Native
Population Trend
Stable
Edibility
--
Cap Shape
--
Hymenium Type
--
Fruiting Season
Wet Season
Recent Sightings
Yes
Habitat Summary Multi-lang
Inhabits tropical and subtropical zones worldwide. It grows exclusively on dead wood, decaying logs, and fallen branches in the humid, shaded understory.Substrate Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!Behaviour Multi-lang
It is a saprophytic fungus specialized in degrading lignin and cellulose. The cup shape is not accidental; it functions as a dispersal mechanism where raindrops hit the interior and splash the spores outward.Physical Measures
Length (cm)
2.0 - 5.0 cm
Hymenium Structures
No hymenium surface images available.
Evolutionary Adaptations Multi-lang
Cup shape (splash-cup) that uses the kinetic energy of rain for spore dispersal.
Bright pigments (carotenoids) that may help in radiation protection or attract insects that accidentally carry spores.
Main Threats Multi-lang
Prolonged droughts that prevent the formation of the fruiting body.
Removal of fallen wood in managed forests, reducing its food source.
Interesting Facts Multi-lang
Unlike many other fungi, Cookeina speciosa is known for its somewhat elastic and tough texture.
While not considered toxic, it has no culinary value due to its leathery consistency.