Melanoleuca melaleuca

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Melanoleuca melaleuca (mushroom), commonly known as the Blackening Parachute, is a species of fungus belonging to the Melanoleuca genus within the Tricholomataceae family. This species is notable for its distinctive characteristics and its occurrence in various habitats across temperate regions.

Description

Melanoleuca melaleuca features a cap that ranges from 4 to 10 cm in diameter, initially convex before flattening out with age, often with a slight umbo at the center. The cap's surface is smooth, with a color palette that varies from pale cream to a darker brown, and it tends to blacken with age or upon handling. The gills are closely spaced, adnate to emarginate, and white to cream in color, also darkening as the mushroom matures.

The stipe (stem) of the mushroom is cylindrical, measuring 4 to 8 cm in height and 0.5 to 1 cm in thickness. It is smooth, with a color similar to the cap but lighter, and it does not have a ring. The flesh of the mushroom is white, with a mild taste and a pleasant smell.

Distribution and Habitat

Melanoleuca melaleuca is found in both deciduous and coniferous forests, thriving in grassy areas, along forest paths, and in open, well-drained soils. It has a widespread distribution in temperate zones of the Northern Hemisphere, including parts of North America, Europe, and Asia. This species forms ectomycorrhizal relationships with various trees, aiding in nutrient exchange and soil health.

Edibility

The edibility of Melanoleuca melaleuca is a subject of debate among mycologists and foragers. While not considered toxic, its culinary value is often described as mediocre, with a recommendation for caution due to the potential for confusion with other, toxic species of similar appearance.

Conservation

Currently, there are no specific conservation efforts directed towards Melanoleuca melaleuca. However, like many fungi, its existence is tied to the health of its ecosystem, particularly the forests and grasslands it inhabits. Conservation of these habitats is crucial for the preservation of this species.

See Also

• Mycology
• Ectomycorrhiza
• Tricholomataceae

Melanoleuca melaleuca
Mycological characteristics
	gills on hymenium
	ecology is mycorrhizal