Agaricomycotina

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Agaricomycotina is a subphylum of the kingdom Fungi that includes a variety of species, many of which are commonly known as mushrooms. This subphylum is characterized by the presence of gills on the underside of the cap, which are used for spore dispersal.

Taxonomy[edit | edit source]

The Agaricomycotina are divided into three classes: Agaricomycetes, Tremellomycetes, and Dacrymycetes. These classes are further divided into orders, families, genera, and species.

Characteristics[edit | edit source]

Members of the Agaricomycotina typically have a cap and stem, although there are exceptions. The cap is often umbrella-shaped, but can also be flat, conical, or bell-shaped. The underside of the cap contains the gills, which are used for spore dispersal. The stem, also known as the stipe, supports the cap and can vary in length and thickness.

Ecology[edit | edit source]

Agaricomycotina species play important roles in the ecosystem. Many are saprophytes, breaking down dead organic material and recycling nutrients back into the soil. Others form mycorrhizal relationships with plants, aiding in nutrient uptake. Some species are parasitic, causing diseases in plants and trees.

Human uses[edit | edit source]

Many species of Agaricomycotina are edible and are cultivated for food. Some of the most well-known edible mushrooms belong to this subphylum, including the button mushroom and the shiitake. However, there are also many poisonous species, so care must be taken when foraging for wild mushrooms.

File:Agaricomycotina.jpg
A variety of Agaricomycotina species

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD