Russulaceae

Russula crustosa Peck 631573

2011-07-25 Arcangeliella crassa Singer %26 A.H. Smith 159495 crop

Zelleromyces cinnabarinus 62064 cropped

Lactifluus sp G3264 pleurotoid French Guiana cropped

2012-01-03 Pseudoxenasma verrucisporum Larsson & Hjortstam 192883

Lactarius rubidus spores 1000x

Russulaceae is a large family of fungi within the order Russulales, notable for their diverse and colorful mushrooms. This family includes genera such as Russula and Lactarius, which are widely recognized for their distinctive features and ecological roles in forest ecosystems. Members of the Russulaceae family are primarily ectomycorrhizal fungi, forming symbiotic relationships with plants, which are crucial for nutrient exchange in forest soils.

Characteristics

Mushrooms belonging to the Russulaceae family exhibit a wide range of colors, shapes, and sizes. They are characterized by their brittle flesh, which is a result of the unique cell structure called sphaerocysts, making them easily breakable like a piece of chalk. Another distinctive feature of many Russulaceae, especially within the genus Lactarius, is the presence of latex, a milky or colored sap that exudes when the mushroom flesh is cut or broken.

Identification

Identification of Russulaceae species can be challenging due to the vast number of species and their often subtle morphological differences. Key identification features include the color and consistency of the latex, the color, shape, and size of the cap and stem, the presence and type of gills, and the mushroom's habitat. Microscopic characteristics, such as spore shape and ornamentation, are also crucial for accurate identification.

Ecology

Russulaceae fungi play a significant role in their ecosystems as ectomycorrhizal partners with trees and other plants. This symbiotic relationship enhances water and nutrient uptake for the host plant, while the fungus benefits from access to carbohydrates produced by the plant through photosynthesis. They are particularly common in temperate and boreal forests but can also be found in some tropical regions.

Edibility

The edibility of Russulaceae mushrooms varies widely, with some species being highly prized edible mushrooms, while others are inedible or poisonous. Notable edible species include Russula xerampelina and Lactarius deliciosus, whereas Russula emetica is known for its toxicity. Proper identification is crucial when foraging for mushrooms, as many edible species have toxic look-alikes.

Conservation

Habitat loss, pollution, and climate change pose threats to the diversity of the Russulaceae family. Conservation efforts are important to protect these fungi and their forest habitats, ensuring the continuation of their ecological roles and the sustainability of mushroom foraging.

Genera

The Russulaceae family comprises several genera, including but not limited to:

• Russula – Characterized by a wide variety of colors and the absence of latex.
• Lactarius – Known for their latex-producing capabilities and diverse morphological features.
• Lactifluus – Previously included within Lactarius, now recognized as a separate genus.
• Macowanites – Truffle-like fungi that are hypogeous (growing underground).

See Also

• Mycorrhiza
• Mycology
• Forest ecology