Disambiguation
Black fungus is often labeled as, or misidentified as wood ear fungus. The two are separate species, but have a similar habit and form. Wood ears tend to be larger and thicker.
Description
An edible wild mushroom, Auricularia polytricha that has a dark, ear-like shape. It is most frequently found in Chinese cuisine, but is present in dishes across the continent and in the Pacific Islands. Fresh black fungus has a jelly-like consistency.