Tremella fuciformis Berk.
Family: Tremellaceae
Snow Fungus
Tremella fuciformis image
National Mushroom Centre  
Mata, M., D. Penjor and S. Pradham. 2010. Fungi of Bhutan. National Mushroom Centre, Ministry of Agriculture and Forests, Thimphu, Bhutan.

Local name: No local name known

Edibility: Medicinal.

Habitat: Lignicolous on decaying tree trunks and branches and solitary to gregarious.

Description: Fruit bodies: Made up of lobed gelatinous patches which are 12-5 cm wide and whitish to translucent. Flesh: Translucent to whitish. Spore Print: White

Comments: With its gelatinous, transparent appearance, it is unlike any other mushroom of the same consistency. It grows on decaying wood and in high humidity. Reported mainly in Asia, it is used to decrease the levels of cholesterol, prevent cardiovascular problems, as a tonic to nourish the stomach, kidneys and brain and for the treatment of problems associated with asthma and chronic bronchitis. It is also used in patients who have undergone chemotherapy or radiotherapy, or in patients with chronic infections to enhance immune system functions.