Hypholoma fasciculare

Hypholoma fasciculare Queteraro

Hypholoma fasciculare

Hypholoma fasciculare, commonly known as the sulphur tuft, is a species of mushroom in the family Strophariaceae. It is a widespread and common fungus found in forests around the world. The mushroom is characterized by its bright yellow to orange-yellow cap, gills that are initially yellow before turning greenish with age, and a distinctive sulphur-like odor.

Description

The cap of Hypholoma fasciculare is convex when young, later flattening out with a central depression. It can reach diameters of up to 7 cm. The gills are crowded together and are initially yellow before changing to a greenish color as the mushroom matures. The stem is cylindrical and often has a ring near the top. The spore print of Hypholoma fasciculare is dark brown.

Habitat and Distribution

Hypholoma fasciculare is a saprobic species, meaning it obtains nutrients by decomposing organic matter. It is commonly found growing on decaying wood, particularly on stumps, logs, and fallen branches. This mushroom can be seen in both coniferous and deciduous forests. It has a widespread distribution and can be found in North America, Europe, Asia, and other regions.

Toxicity

While Hypholoma fasciculare is not considered deadly, it is toxic and should not be consumed. Ingesting this mushroom can lead to gastrointestinal upset, including symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is important to exercise caution when foraging for wild mushrooms and to accurately identify species before consumption.

Similar Species

There are several species that resemble Hypholoma fasciculare in appearance, including the deadly poisonous Amanita phalloides and the edible Armillaria mellea. It is crucial for mushroom hunters to be able to distinguish between these species to avoid accidental ingestion of toxic mushrooms.

Conservation

As a common and widespread species, Hypholoma fasciculare is not currently considered threatened or endangered. However, habitat loss and environmental degradation can impact the populations of this mushroom, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts to protect its natural habitats.