Gyroporus cyanescens

Gyroporus cyanescens, commonly known as the blueing bolete, is a species of mushroom belonging to the family Gyroporaceae. This fungus is notable for its distinctive characteristic of turning blue when bruised or cut, a reaction that occurs due to the presence of a chemical compound that oxidizes upon exposure to air. Found in various parts of the world, including Europe, Asia, and North America, Gyroporus cyanescens thrives in deciduous and coniferous forests, forming symbiotic relationships with living trees by facilitating nutrient exchange through its mycorrhizal network.

Description

Gyroporus cyanescens features a cap that ranges from 4 to 10 cm in diameter, initially convex before flattening out with age. The cap's surface is smooth, with a color palette that varies from cream to light brown. The stipe (stem) is slender, measuring 4 to 8 cm in height and 1 to 2 cm in width, and exhibits the same coloration as the cap. The pores of the mushroom are small and round, transitioning from a pale yellow to a greenish-blue hue upon damage or with age.

One of the most striking features of Gyroporus cyanescens is its blueing reaction. When the flesh of the mushroom is cut or bruised, it rapidly turns a vivid blue, a phenomenon that has intrigued mycologists and mushroom enthusiasts alike. This reaction is due to the oxidation of variegatic or boletic acids present in the mushroom.

Habitat and Distribution

Gyroporus cyanescens is a cosmopolitan species, found in both temperate and subtropical regions. It forms ectomycorrhizal associations with a wide variety of trees, including oaks (Quercus spp.), pines (Pinus spp.), and beeches (Fagus spp.). These mushrooms are typically found in sandy soils within deciduous and mixed forests, often appearing from late summer to early autumn.

Edibility

The edibility of Gyroporus cyanescens has been a subject of debate among foragers and mycologists. While some sources consider it edible, others advise caution due to the potential for confusion with toxic look-alikes. As with all wild mushrooms, it is crucial to have a thorough identification before consumption. The blueing reaction, while distinctive, should not be solely relied upon for identification due to the existence of other blueing bolete species.

Conservation

While Gyroporus cyanescens is not currently listed as endangered or threatened, its habitat is susceptible to the same environmental pressures facing many forest ecosystems. These include deforestation, pollution, and climate change, which can impact the delicate balance of mycorrhizal relationships essential for the survival of many tree species and their fungal partners.

See Also

• Mycorrhiza
• Bolete
• Mycology