Cortinarius

Cortinarius violaceus 02

Cortinarius is a large genus of mushrooms in the family Cortinariaceae. It is one of the most diverse fungal genera, containing over 2000 species distributed globally. The name "Cortinarius" comes from the Latin word 'cortina', meaning a curtain, referring to the distinctive veil that covers the young fruiting bodies and connects the mushroom's cap to its stem. This veil is a key identifying feature of the genus, although it is often ephemeral and may not be present on mature specimens.

Description

Cortinarius species can vary widely in size, color, and shape, but they typically have gills that are attached to the stem, sometimes running down it slightly (decurrent). The gills are initially covered by a cortina, a web-like veil that tears as the mushroom matures, leaving remnants on the stem or the edge of the cap. The cap itself can be conical, bell-shaped, convex, or flat, and it may change shape as the mushroom ages. The color palette of Cortinarius mushrooms is diverse, including shades of brown, yellow, red, purple, and blue, often fading or changing with age or when damaged.

Habitat and Distribution

Cortinarius species are predominantly mycorrhizal, forming symbiotic associations with the roots of living plants, including trees and shrubs, which makes them important components of forest ecosystems. They are found in a variety of habitats, from boreal forests to temperate woodlands and mountainous regions, with different species adapted to specific environmental conditions or host plants.

Toxicity

Many Cortinarius species are considered toxic, and some contain deadly toxins. Notably, species such as Cortinarius rubellus and Cortinarius orellanus contain orellanine, a toxin that can cause severe kidney damage if ingested. Due to the difficulty in distinguishing between species and the potential for severe toxicity, foragers are generally advised to avoid collecting Cortinarius mushrooms for consumption.

Research and Conservation

Research on Cortinarius species is ongoing, with new species being described regularly. Studies focus on their ecology, phylogeny, and conservation, given their role in forest ecosystems and the threat posed by habitat loss and climate change. Conservation efforts are aimed at protecting their habitats and understanding their ecological roles, particularly their symbiotic relationships with plants.

See Also

• Mycology
• Mushroom hunting
• Mushroom poisoning