Discover the hidden secrets of the Jelly Antler mushroom (Calocera viscosa), the forest's vibrant, golden serotonin factory! In this mycology deep dive podcast, we explore why this fascinating fungi looks like a delicate coral fungus but is actually a tough, highly resilient wood-rotter hiding a massive underground network.

We uncover its incredible biochemistry, including naturally occurring 5-HTP, serotonin, and melatonin, and how its chemical makeup rivals modern antidepressants. Plus, learn about its groundbreaking potential in bioremediation—from neutralizing toxic industrial dyes to literally eating polystyrene (Styrofoam)! Whether you're into mycology, foraging, or environmental science, this episode will completely change how you look at the forest floor.

00:00 The visual trap of the Jelly Antler in the coniferous forest

04:15 Taxonomy history of Calocera viscosa and the "beautiful sticky horn"

08:30 How to properly identify Jelly Antlers vs fragile coral fungi

12:45 The terrestrial illusion: Why it grows on deeply buried wood

16:20 Microscopic identification and the missing clamp connections

20:10 Biochemistry revealed: 5-HTP, Serotonin, and Melatonin in fungi

26:30 The brown rot process and degrading tough lignin

30:45 Bioremediation marvels: Eating toxic textile dyes and Styrofoam

33:00 Evolutionary connections between human brains and fungal networks

Jelly Antler mushroom, Calocera viscosa, mycology podcast, fungi identification, serotonin in mushrooms, 5-HTP natural sources, bioremediation, mushrooms that eat plastic, coral fungi lookalikes, brown rot fungi, medicinal mushrooms, forest foraging, fungal biochemistry, eating styrofoam, mycoremediation

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