Scarlet Elf Cup fungus in the New Forest
Sarcoscypha coccinea, commonly known as the scarlet elf cup, scarlet elf cap, or the scarlet cup, is a species of fungus in the family Sarcoscyphaceae of the order Pezizales. The fungus, widely distributed in the Northern Hemisphere, has been found in Africa, Asia, Europe, North and South America, and Australia. The type species of the genus Sarcoscypha, S. coccinea has been known by many names since its first appearance in the scientific literature in saprobic fungus grows on decaying sticks and branches in damp spots on forest floors, generally buried under leaf litter or in the soil. The cup-shaped fruit bodies are usually produced during the cooler months of winter and early spring. The brilliant red interior of the cups—from which both the common and scientific names are derived—contrasts with the lighter-colored exterior. The edibility of the fruit bodies is well established, but its small size, small abundance tough texture and insubstantial fruitings would dissuade most people from collecting for the table.
Size: 3887px × 3887px
Location: Blashford Lakes, Ellingham, Hampshire
Photo credit: © Niall Ferguson / Alamy / Afripics
License: Royalty Free
Model Released: No
Keywords: cap, coccinea, cup, edible, elf, fungus, mushroom, pezizales, sarcoscypha, sarcoscyphaceae, scarlet, toadstool
