Hypholoma lateritium

Hypholoma lateritium, commonly known as the brick cap or the brick tuft, is a species of fungus belonging to the family Strophariaceae. It is found in various parts of the world, growing in clusters on dead wood, particularly on hardwood stumps and logs. This mushroom is notable for its brick-red cap and gills that turn from yellow to gray as it matures. While it shares habitats with its poisonous relatives, such as Hypholoma fasciculare, Hypholoma lateritium is considered edible, though some find its taste not particularly appealing.

Description

Hypholoma lateritium features a cap that ranges from 5 to 10 cm in diameter, initially convex before flattening out with age. The cap's surface is smooth and moist, displaying a reddish-brown color that resembles bricks, hence its common name. The gills are initially yellow but become grayish as the spores mature. The stem of the mushroom is 4 to 10 cm long and 0.5 to 1.5 cm thick, often with a more yellowish hue compared to the cap.

The spore print of Hypholoma lateritium is purple-brown. Its spores are elliptical and smooth, measuring 6 to 7.5 by 4 to 4.5 micrometers. This species can be distinguished from its poisonous relatives by its spore print and the absence of a bitter taste.

Habitat and Distribution

Hypholoma lateritium is saprotrophic, meaning it feeds on dead organic matter. It is commonly found in temperate regions across North America and Europe, though it has also been reported in other parts of the world. The fungus typically grows in dense clusters on stumps and logs of hardwood trees, especially in the fall.

Edibility

The edibility of Hypholoma lateritium has been a subject of debate. While it is considered edible, its taste is not highly regarded, and it is often recommended to be cooked well if consumed. Caution is advised, as it can be easily confused with its close, poisonous relatives, such as Hypholoma fasciculare. Proper identification by an experienced mycologist is essential before consumption.

Conservation

As a decomposer, Hypholoma lateritium plays a crucial role in its ecosystem, helping to break down dead wood and recycle nutrients. There are currently no known conservation concerns for this species, as it is relatively widespread and common in its natural habitat.

See Also

• Mushroom hunting
• Mushroom poisoning
• Strophariaceae

References

Hypholoma lateritium
Mycological characteristics
	gills on hymenium
	cap is convex
	hymenium is adnate
	stipe is bare
	spore print is purple-brown
	ecology is saprotrophic
	edibility: edible