Molecular research, based on cladistic analysis of DNA sequences, has however shown that Auricularia mesenterica (as previously understood) is a complex of related species and that A. mesenterica sensu stricto is confined to Europe and Central Asia, with superficially similar but distinct species occurring elsewhere.

[4] This species forms bracket-like fruit bodies that first appear pale, rubbery, and button-like, expanding to typically 3 to 7 cm (1.2 to 2.8 in) across and hardening with age.

Some unrelated Stereum species may have similarly zoned caps, but their fruit bodies are leathery (not gelatinous) and their undersurfaces are often yellowish to orange.

Before the fruit body fully matures and hardens, young specimens are said to be edible, but in some local populations, these fungi tend to bioaccumulate high levels of heavy metals from their environment.

[6] A. mesenterica has shown to have high levels of phenols, flavonoids, and antioxidant activity, having potential as antitumor agent.