Authentic Cordyceps have distinct characteristics that help determine their grade and price. Shape and Color: Elongated and slender with a light brown colour; fungal fruiting body emerges from a caterpillar-like base with a bulbous end. Head: Light brown with an obvious colour change; features a flat, brown eye and three pairs of degenerated feet at the front. Body: Clear rings on the body indicate authenticity. Legs: Four pairs of legs around the stomach area and a single pair of feet at the end.