(MD) (Natural History Society of Maryland) From translucent blobs to coral-like clusters, jelly fungi are among the most visually striking and biologically fascinating organisms found on Maryland’s forest floor. These gelatinous decomposers come in a spectrum of colors—bright orange, inky black, creamy white—and textures that range from rubbery cushions to toothy caps. Often mistaken for slime molds or cup fungi, jelly fungi play a vital role in breaking down dead wood and recycling nutrients in forest ecosystems.

In this talk, William Needham—Master Naturalist and former president of the Mycological Association of Washington—will guide us through the science and folklore of these squishy wonders.