Fluted Bird's Nest Fungi

Description:

Bird's nest fungus has fruiting bodies that resemble a birds nest filled with eggs. The eggs are flattened eliptical structures called peridioles. Another common name given to C. striatus is 'splash cups' and alludes to the method of spore dispersal: the sides of the cup are angled such that falling drops of water can dislodge the peridioles and eject them from the cup.

Habitat:

Temperate regions of the world. Dead wood in open forests, wood chip mulch in urban areas.