Agaricus cupreobrunneus

Error creating thumbnail:

Cupreobrunneus

Agaricus cupreobrunneus is a species of mushroom belonging to the genus Agaricus, which is part of the large family Agaricaceae. This species, like others in its genus, is characterized by a cap that can vary in color but often exhibits shades of copper or brown, and by its gilled underside, which houses the spores. The specific epithet cupreobrunneus is derived from Latin, meaning "copper brown," referring to the distinctive color of the mushroom's cap.

Description

Agaricus cupreobrunneus mushrooms have a cap that typically measures between 5 to 10 cm in diameter when fully mature. The cap is initially convex, becoming more flattened as it matures. Its surface is smooth, with a distinctive copper-brown coloration that can vary in intensity depending on environmental conditions. The gills are free from the stem, starting out pink in young mushrooms and progressing to a dark chocolate brown as the spores mature. The stem of the mushroom is cylindrical, solid, and bears a ring, which is a remnant of the partial veil that once enclosed the gills of the immature mushroom.

Habitat and Distribution

Agaricus cupreobrunneus is found in grassy areas such as lawns, parks, and meadows, often forming rings or arcs known as "fairy rings" due to the way they deplete nutrients in the soil in a circular pattern as they grow. This species is saprotrophic, meaning it feeds on dead organic matter, helping to decompose dead grass and other plant material. It has a widespread distribution, occurring in various parts of the world where conditions are suitable for its growth.

Edibility

The edibility of Agaricus cupreobrunneus is a subject of interest to foragers and mushroom enthusiasts. Like many members of the Agaricus genus, it is edible, but it is crucial to correctly identify this species due to the presence of look-alikes, some of which may be poisonous. Proper identification involves examining the mushroom's physical characteristics, such as cap color, gill color, and the presence of a ring on the stem, as well as conducting a spore print, which should be dark brown.

Conservation

As of the current knowledge, Agaricus cupreobrunneus does not face any immediate threats that would warrant conservation concern. However, like all fungi, its populations are susceptible to changes in their environment, including pollution, habitat destruction, and the effects of climate change. Conservation efforts for mushrooms and fungi, in general, focus on preserving their natural habitats and maintaining the ecological balance that supports their growth and reproduction.

See Also

• Agaricaceae
• Mushroom hunting
• Mycology