Aureoboletus auriporus

Aureoboletus auriporus 264294

Aureoboletus auriporus is a species of mushroom belonging to the Boletaceae family, which is part of the larger order of Boletales. This mushroom is notable for its distinctive golden-yellow pores, from which its name is derived; "aureo" meaning gold and "porus" referring to pores. It is a mycorrhizal fungus, forming symbiotic associations with living trees, particularly with species of oak (Quercus) and pine (Pinus).

Description

Aureoboletus auriporus mushrooms have a cap that can range from 3 to 10 cm in diameter, initially convex before flattening out with age. The cap surface is typically smooth and can vary in color from light brown to reddish-brown. The underside of the cap features its characteristic golden-yellow pores, which do not change color upon bruising. The stem of the mushroom is similar in color to the cap and can measure from 4 to 8 cm in height. Unlike many other boletes, Aureoboletus auriporus does not have a net-like pattern on the stem.

The spore print of Aureoboletus auriporus is olive-brown. Its spores are elongated and smooth, contributing to its identification.

Habitat and Distribution

Aureoboletus auriporus is found in both deciduous and coniferous forests, thriving in well-drained soils. It is predominantly associated with oaks and pines, benefiting from the mycorrhizal relationship by exchanging nutrients with its host trees. This species is widely distributed across North America and has been found in parts of Europe and Asia, indicating a broad ecological tolerance.

Edibility

The edibility of Aureoboletus auriporus is considered good, though it is not as popular or well-known as other boletes like Boletus edulis. It can be used in a variety of culinary preparations, but as with all wild mushrooms, proper identification is crucial before consumption to avoid confusion with potentially toxic species.

Conservation

As of the current knowledge, Aureoboletus auriporus does not face any immediate threats that would warrant conservation concern. However, like many fungi, its presence is dependent on the health of its habitat, particularly the forests and the trees it forms associations with. Changes in forest composition, deforestation, and climate change could potentially impact its distribution and abundance.

See Also

• Boletaceae
• Mycorrhiza
• Boletus edulis