bird’s nest fungus

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June 22, 2026

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Bird's-nest fungus refers to fungi belonging to the family Nidulariaceae. These fungi are part of the larger Basidiomycota phylum.123

The fruiting bodies of bird's-nest fungi are hollow and resemble nests. Inside these "nests" are structures called peridioles, which contain the spores. When mature, the peridioles disperse the spores, aiding in the fungus's reproduction. This unique characteristic distinguishes them within the fungal kingdom.3

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Basidiomycota
The common name bird’s nest fungus includes species of the genera Crucibulum, Cyathus, and Nidularia of the family Nidulariaceae (order Agaricales), which contains about 60 species. The hollow fruiting body resembles a nest containing eggs (peridioles). The peridioles carry the spores when they disperse at maturity.
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The common name bird’s nest fungus includes species of the genera Crucibulum, Cyathus, and Nidularia of the family Nidulariaceae (order Agaricales), which contains about 60 species. The hollow fruiting body resembles a nest containing eggs (peridioles). The peridioles carry the spores when they disperse at maturity.
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