Fuligo septica

(L.) F. H. Wigg.

Scrambled egg slime

Physaraceae Edible: Mushroom, Fungus Potential hazards — see below 74,008 iNaturalist observations

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Summary

Fuligo septica is a species of slime mold in the class Myxomycetes. It is commonly known as scrambled egg slime or flowers of tan because of its peculiar yellowish appearance; it is also known as dog vomit slime mold. This slime mold is relatively common with a worldwide distribution, often being found on bark, mulch, lawns, as well as other rotting organic matter in urban areas after heavy rain or excessive watering. Their spores are produced on or in aerial sporangia and are spread by wind.

Description

A mushroom. It is a slime mould.

This description is brief — help expand it

Edible Uses

There are some reports of its use as medicine (to treat boils) or as food.

Known Hazards

Slime molds can have a high resistance to toxic levels of metals; one author was prompted to write "The levels of zinc in Fuligo septica were so high (4,000–20,000 ppm) that it is difficult to understand how a living organism can tolerate them." The resistance to extreme levels of zinc appears to be unique to F. septica. The mechanism of this metal resistance is now understood: F. septica produces a yellow pigment called fuligorubin A, which has been shown to chelate metals and convert them to inactive forms.

Distribution

It is a subtropical plant.

Where It Grows

Mexico, North America,

References (2)

Boa, E. R., 2004, Wild edible fungi and their importance to people. FAO Non Wood Forest Products Booklet 17
Hall, I. R., et al, 2003, Edible and Poisonous Mushrooms of the World. Timber Press. p 290