Horse nettle

Horse Mushroom (Agaricus arvensis) is a species of agaric mushroom that is widely distributed in the Northern Hemisphere. The mushroom is commonly found in fields, grasslands, and other open habitats, particularly in soil enriched with manure.

Description

The cap of the horse mushroom can reach up to 20 cm (8 in) in diameter. It is initially hemispherical before flattening out with maturity. The cap surface is smooth and white, although it may become yellowish with age or when bruised. The gills are free from the stem, densely packed, and initially pink before turning chocolate brown as the mushroom matures. The stipe is cylindrical, white, and bears a large, persistent ring.

Edibility

Horse mushrooms are edible and are often used in cooking for their robust flavor. However, they can be easily confused with several poisonous species, including the yellow-staining mushroom (Agaricus xanthodermus) and the deadly poisonous destroying angel (Amanita virosa). Therefore, they should only be consumed when positively identified by a knowledgeable mycologist.

Habitat and distribution

Horse mushrooms are saprobic, meaning they obtain nutrients by decomposing organic matter. They are commonly found in fields, grasslands, and other open habitats, particularly in soil enriched with manure. The species is widely distributed in the Northern Hemisphere, including North America, Europe, and Asia.

See also

• Button mushroom
• Field mushroom
• Yellow-staining mushroom