Handkea excipuliformis

Handkea excipuliformis is a species of fungus belonging to the family Agaricaceae. It is commonly known as the puffball mushroom, specifically the pestle puffball, due to its distinctive shape resembling a pestle. This species is found in various parts of the world, thriving in meadows, grasslands, and sometimes in deciduous forests, indicating its adaptability to different ecological niches.

Description

Handkea excipuliformis features a globular to pear-shaped fruiting body, which can reach up to 6 cm in diameter. The outer surface is initially white, becoming yellowish or brownish with age. The skin of the puffball is thick and leathery, which upon maturity, splits open to release spores. The interior is initially solid and white, turning into a mass of brown spore powder as it ages. The puffball is supported by a distinct, thick, and stubby base, resembling a pestle, which is a key identifying feature of this species.

Habitat and Distribution

This puffball species is widely distributed across the Northern Hemisphere, including parts of Europe, North America, and Asia. It prefers open, grassy areas, and is often found in meadows, lawns, and the edges of forests. Handkea excipuliformis has a symbiotic relationship with the soil, contributing to the nutrient cycle and supporting the health of its ecosystem.

Culinary Use

While young and the flesh is still white, Handkea excipuliformis is edible and considered a delicacy in some cultures. It is important to ensure the mushroom is correctly identified, as some puffballs can be confused with immature stages of poisonous Amanita species. Proper identification involves cutting the puffball open to check for the absence of developing gills or structures of other mushrooms.

Conservation

Currently, Handkea excipuliformis is not listed as endangered or threatened. However, like many fungi, it faces threats from habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change. Conservation efforts are important to maintain the biodiversity and ecological roles of fungi in their natural habitats.

Handkea excipuliformis
Mycological characteristics
	glebal hymenium
	hymenium attachment is not applicable
	lacks a stipe
	spore print is olive-brown
	ecology is saprotrophic
	edibility: edible