Pluteus cervinus

Pluteus cervinus, also known as the deer shield or the deer's mushroom, is a species of agaric fungus in the genus Pluteus. It is a common, globally distributed species that grows on dead wood and wood debris.

Taxonomy

The species was first described scientifically by Elias Magnus Fries in 1821. The specific epithet cervinus is derived from the Latin cervus, meaning "deer", a reference to the color of the cap which resembles the color of a deer's back.

Description

The cap of P. cervinus is initially convex before flattening out with age, reaching a diameter of 4–12 cm. The cap surface is smooth and can range in color from pale to dark brown, often with a pinkish tint. The gills are free from the stem, crowded together, and white to pink in color. The spores are pink.

The stipe is 4–10 cm long and 0.5–1.5 cm thick, cylindrical, and often thicker at the base. It is white to pale brown and smooth.

Habitat and distribution

P. cervinus is a saprophytic species, meaning it obtains its nutrients from decaying organic matter. It is commonly found growing on dead hardwood, particularly on logs and stumps, but can also grow on wood chip mulch.

This species has a widespread distribution and can be found in North and South America, Europe, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand. It is most commonly found in temperate regions.

Edibility

P. cervinus is considered edible, although it is not highly regarded due to its mild flavor and the fact that it often grows in dirty environments.

See also

• List of Pluteus species
• Fungus

External links

• MushroomExpert.Com: Pluteus cervinus