Scutellinia scutellata - Скутеллиния щитовидная - Eyelash Cup

Scutellinia scutellata - Скутеллиния щитовидная - Eyelash Cup - Wimpernbecherling 7/9/10—3/25/23

Scutellinia scutellata, commonly known as the Eyelash Cup or Wimpernbecherling in German, is a small, colorful cup fungus belonging to the family Pyronemataceae. It is easily identified by its vibrant orange-red hue and the distinctive dark, eyelash-like hairs lining the outer edges of the cup. The fruiting bodies of S. scutellata typically measure between 0.5 and 2 cm in diameter, with a shallow to deep cup shape. The inner surface is smooth and brightly colored, while the outer surface is covered with dark, stiff hairs that can be up to 1 mm long. Eyelash Cup fungi are saprotrophic, meaning they obtain nutrients by decomposing dead organic matter. They are commonly found on decaying wood, plant debris, and damp soil in a variety of environments, including forests, meadows, and gardens. Scutellinia scutellata is widely distributed across North America, Europe, and Asia, and it can be found from spring to autumn. The spores of S. scutellata are elliptical, smooth, and hyaline, measuring about 17-23 x 10-13 µm. They are formed in asci, sac-like structures within the apothecium that contain the spores. While the chemistry of Scutellinia scutellata has not been extensively studied, it is believed to contain various secondary metabolites common to the Pyronemataceae family. The Eyelash Cup is considered inedible due to its small size and tough, rubbery texture. Some researchers have proposed that Scutellinia species, including S. scutellata, might have potential applications in bioremediation due to their ability to decompose complex organic compounds. The identification of Scutellinia scutellata can be difficult due to its resemblance to other Scutellinia species, such as Scutellinia trechispora, which has longer eyelash-like hairs. Proper identification is essential for both ecological research and for foragers interested in collecting cup fungi. More research is needed to better understand the ecology, distribution, and potential uses of Scutellinia scutellata. Conservation efforts should focus on preserving the habitats in which Eyelash Cup fungi are found, as some populations may be threatened by habitat loss and environmental degradation.