Lactarius pallidus

Lactarius pallidus is a species of mushroom belonging to the large genus Lactarius, which is part of the Russulaceae family. This group of mushrooms is commonly known as milk-caps, due to the milky latex they exude when their flesh is cut or broken. Lactarius pallidus is characterized by its pale appearance, which is where it derives its name; "pallidus" meaning pale in Latin.

Description

Lactarius pallidus features a cap that ranges from 4 to 10 cm in diameter, initially convex before becoming more flattened or slightly depressed in the center with age. The cap's color is pale cream to light ochre, often with a slightly darker center. The margin of the cap is smooth and can become slightly wavy as the mushroom matures.

The gills of Lactarius pallidus are closely spaced, adnate to slightly decurrent, and are the same color or slightly lighter than the cap. When damaged, the gills release a white, milky latex that does not change color upon exposure to air.

The stipe (stem) is 2 to 6 cm tall and 1 to 2 cm thick, more or less equal in width along its length, and bears the same coloration as the cap. The flesh of the mushroom is firm, with a mild taste and a faint or sometimes indistinctive smell.

Habitat and Distribution

Lactarius pallidus is a mycorrhizal fungus, forming symbiotic relationships with the roots of certain trees, particularly with species of oak and beech. It is found in deciduous and mixed forests, favoring calcareous soils. This species is distributed in various parts of Europe and North America, though it is not among the most common of the Lactarius species.

Edibility

The edibility of Lactarius pallidus is questionable. While not considered toxic, its culinary value is low due to its mild flavor and the latex it produces, which can be unpalatable to some. As with all wild mushrooms, it is essential to have a thorough identification before any attempt at consumption.

Conservation

There are no specific conservation concerns for Lactarius pallidus at present. It is not listed as endangered or threatened in any part of its known range. However, like all fungi, its populations are dependent on healthy forest ecosystems, making habitat preservation crucial for its continued survival.

See Also

• Mycorrhiza
• Lactarius
• Russulaceae
• Mushroom hunting