Panaeolus bisporus

Panaeolus bisporus is a species of mushroom belonging to the family Bolbitiaceae. It is one of the many species within the genus Panaeolus. This mushroom is characterized by its unique features, including its bi-spored basidia, which is a distinguishing factor from most other species in the Panaeolus genus that typically have four spores per basidium. The name bisporus directly refers to this characteristic, with "bi-" meaning two and "sporus" referring to spores.

Description

Panaeolus bisporus mushrooms have caps that range from 2 to 4 cm in diameter, initially bell-shaped before flattening out with age, often with a slight umbo at the center. The cap surface is smooth and can vary in color from greyish to brownish, often becoming lighter as the mushroom matures. The gills are closely spaced, starting out light and becoming darker, often black, as the spores mature. The stem of the mushroom is slender, ranging from 4 to 8 cm in height, and is typically the same color as the cap but lighter.

The spores of Panaeolus bisporus are black in mass, which is a common trait among mushrooms in the Panaeolus genus. However, the defining feature of Panaeolus bisporus is its bi-spored basidia, making it an exception among its peers, which predominantly feature four spores per basidium.

Habitat and Distribution

Panaeolus bisporus is found in grassy areas, particularly those enriched with dung, across various parts of the world. This species prefers warm, humid climates and is often found in pastures, lawns, and other grassy places where dung is present. Its distribution includes various regions across North America, Europe, and Asia, reflecting its adaptability to different environmental conditions.

Ecology

As a saprotrophic organism, Panaeolus bisporus plays a crucial role in its ecosystem by decomposing organic matter, specifically dung, which contributes to nutrient cycling and soil health. This ecological role is vital for the maintenance of healthy grasslands and pastures.

Cultivation

Cultivation of Panaeolus bisporus is not commonly practiced, as the mushroom's growth requirements and substrate specificity (dung) make it less accessible for casual cultivation compared to other edible or psychoactive mushrooms.

Edibility

The edibility of Panaeolus bisporus is not well-documented, and it is generally not considered a choice edible due to its small size, growth substrate, and potential confusion with other toxic Panaeolus species. As with all wild mushrooms, proper identification by an expert is crucial before considering consumption.

See Also

• Mushroom hunting
• Mycology
• Saprotrophic nutrition
• Spore