Inocybe corydalina var. corydalina

Inocybe corydalina 246850

Inocybe corydalina var. corydalina is a basidiomycete fungus in the family Inocybaceae. This variety is notable for its distinctive mushroom morphology and its occurrence in various habitats.

Description

The fruiting body of Inocybe corydalina var. corydalina typically features a pileus (cap) that ranges from 2 to 5 cm in diameter. The cap is conical to convex in shape, often becoming more flattened with age. The surface of the cap is fibrillose and may exhibit various shades of brown, sometimes with a greenish tinge. The gills are adnexed to adnate, closely spaced, and initially white, turning brown as the spores mature.

The stipe (stem) is slender, measuring 3 to 8 cm in length and 0.3 to 0.8 cm in thickness. It is typically the same color as the cap or slightly paler, with a fibrous texture. The spore print is brown.

Microscopic Features

The spores of Inocybe corydalina var. corydalina are smooth, ellipsoid, and measure 8-10 by 5-6 micrometers. The basidia are typically four-spored. Cystidia are present on the gill edges and faces, often with thick walls and distinctive shapes.

Habitat and Distribution

Inocybe corydalina var. corydalina is commonly found in temperate regions, growing in deciduous and coniferous forests. It forms mycorrhizal associations with various tree species, contributing to nutrient exchange in the soil. The fruiting bodies appear from late summer to autumn.

Toxicity

Like many species in the genus Inocybe, Inocybe corydalina var. corydalina is considered toxic. It contains muscarine, a compound that can cause severe muscarine poisoning if ingested. Symptoms of muscarine poisoning include excessive salivation, sweating, and abdominal pain, which can be life-threatening without prompt medical treatment.

Similar Species

Inocybe corydalina var. corydalina can be confused with other Inocybe species due to its similar morphology. Careful examination of microscopic features and chemical tests are often required for accurate identification.

Research and Uses

Research on Inocybe corydalina var. corydalina primarily focuses on its ecological role and toxicology. There are no known culinary or medicinal uses for this fungus due to its toxicity.

See Also

• Inocybe
• Mycorrhiza
• Muscarine poisoning
• Basidiomycota