Discina ancilis
Discina ancilis, commonly known as pig's ears is a brown to tannish, wrinkled, cup- or ear-shaped fungus, sometimes with short, stout stalk.
Taxonomy
The spores of D. ancilis are quite similar to those of mushrooms in the genus Gyromitra, so some mycologists classify it there.
Description
The cup measures wide, with a disc-like, whitish exterior, and a dark brown to tan interior. The cup is often wrinkled to convoluted, with the edges turned downward. The flesh is brittle. The stipe is up to long and 3 cm thick; it is whitish to brownish in color.
Microscopic characteristics
The spores are 25–35 x 11–16 μm, spindle shaped, minutely roughened, with a large central oil drop and two smaller ones at each end.
Similar species
Disciotis venosa is more deeply veined, and has smooth spores; it is typically found in deciduous woods. Other similar species of Discina must be differentiated microscopically. Peziza repanda is also similar. In the Pacific Northwest, D. leucoxantha and D. olympiana are similar. It also resembles Gyromitra melaleucoides.
Distribution and habitat
It is found singularly or in groups, on humus or rotten wood in coniferous areas; near melting snowbanks in western mountains. It is found in temperate areas of North America. It comes into fruiting from May–July.
Edibility
It is considered edible by some authors, but not others; it can be confused with other potentially toxic species. It should be cooked before consumption.