Auricularia juricula-judae

Biological Overview

Habitat
On trees in forest

Diet
Dead trees

Role in Ecosystem
A decomposer that decomposes trees

Behavior
Grows on tree and eats trees

Human Impact

Humans impact jelly ear fungus through extensive global cultivation—where it is the second most grown mushroom—and widespread foraging. Conversely, the fungus provides humans with a nutrient-dense food source and medicinal extracts used to lower cholesterol and inhibit blood clotting. However, human industrial activity can contaminate wild specimens with heavy metals, and improper preparation can lead to bacterial infections or toxic bongkrekic acid buildup.

Creative Exploration

I am a type of fungus and I live on many trees. I stay in one place, not leaving till my job is done; with my work the forest blooms. Only till a human or small forest animal comes, I live in peace until the pot.

Wesley, Blake

Book 7