Star jelly is a perplexing, gelatinous substance occasionally found in natural settings. Its sudden appearance and unusual consistency have fascinated observers for centuries. This enigmatic material has puzzled observers, leading to various folk explanations for its origin.
Describing Star Jelly
Star jelly typically appears as a translucent or grayish-white gelatinous mass. Its texture can range from a clear, gooey consistency to a more opaque, jelly-like blob. These masses are commonly discovered in damp, grassy areas, particularly after periods of rain or heavy dew. They are usually found on the ground but can sometimes be observed on tree branches or moss.
Unraveling the Mystery
While historically associated with celestial events, the true nature of star jelly is far more terrestrial, involving several distinct biological phenomena. One common explanation points to unfertilized amphibian spawn, often from frogs or toads. Predators like birds or mammals may consume the nutritious parts of the amphibian, but regurgitate the oviducts or unfertilized egg masses, which then swell significantly upon absorbing moisture.
Another frequent source of star jelly is Nostoc commune, a type of cyanobacterium. This organism forms colonies encased in a gelatinous sheath, allowing it to survive harsh conditions. When dry, Nostoc commune forms an inconspicuous, crisp brownish mat, but it expands dramatically into a noticeable jelly-like mass after rainfall. These masses can be bluish-green, olive green, or brown when wet.
Certain fungi, known as jelly fungi, can also resemble star jelly with their clear, gelatinous appearance. These fungi are typically found growing on decaying wood. Slime molds, which appear as gelatinous slime, may also contribute to star jelly sightings. These organisms were once classified as fungi.
Historically, people believed star jelly fell from the sky, linking it to meteor showers or other celestial phenomena. However, scientific inquiry has not supported these extraterrestrial theories. The sudden appearance after rain, combined with its unusual form, likely contributed to these early interpretations.
Encountering Star Jelly
When encountering star jelly, it is advisable to observe it from a distance rather than making direct contact. Since some forms of star jelly can be unfertilized amphibian spawn or cyanobacteria, they may contain bacteria or other microorganisms. These substances are generally harmless if left undisturbed.
Star jelly typically resolves on its own within a short period. As environmental conditions change, particularly with drying weather or exposure to sunlight, the gelatinous mass will usually dehydrate and disappear. This natural degradation process means no intervention is generally required.