Synonyms: Arcyria assamica, Arcyria clathroides, Arcyria conjugata, Arcyria minor, Arcyria punicea, Arcyria vernicosa, Clathroides denudatum, Clathrus denudatus, Embolus crocatus, Lycogala clathroides, Mucor clathroides, Stemonitis coccinea, Stemonitis crocata, Stemonitis crocea, Stemonitis denudata, Trichia cinnabarina, Trichia cinnabaris, Trichia denudata, Trichia graniformis, Trichia rufa.
Common name: carnival candy slime mold.
Arcyria denudata is a species of slime mold characterized by its reddish-orange to yellowish-brown sporangia, typically 1-3 mm tall, with a stalked, cylindrical to clavate shape, and a peridium that dehisces into a cup-like structure. In East and Central Texas, A. denudata has been found growing on decaying wood, leaf litter, and soil in shaded, humid areas, often associated with trees such as oak, beech, and pine. It typically fruits in the spring and summer months, with a distribution that includes the eastern part of the Edwards Plateau and the Piney Woods regions.
Carnival candy slime mold (Arcyria denudata) on wet wood in Little Thicket Nature Sanctuary near Cleveland. Texas, June 26, 2021
San Jacinto County, Texas, United StatesObservations of Arcyria denudata in East and Central Texas reveal its preference for moist environments. On June 26, 2021, the species was spotted on wet wood in Little Thicket Nature Sanctuary near Cleveland, Texas. The slime mold's vibrant orange to yellowish color was prominent, resembling carnival candy. Further observations showed that Arcyria denudata thrives in shaded areas with high humidity, often growing on decaying logs or tree stumps. In these regions, the species tends to fruit in late spring and early summer, typically after periods of heavy rainfall. Its sporangia are usually scattered, measuring 1-3 mm in height, with a stalked, powdery appearance. The distribution of Arcyria denudata in East and Central Texas suggests an affinity for temperate forests with abundant organic matter and suitable moisture levels. This habitat specificity allows the species to flourish in these areas.
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