Suillellus luridus

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Suillellus luridus (synonym: Boletus luridus), commonly known as the lurid bolete, is a fungus belonging to the Boletaceae family. This mushroom is notable for its distinctive appearance and its presence in woodland ecosystems across Europe and Asia. It is a mycorrhizal species, forming beneficial associations with trees, which makes it an important component of forest biodiversity.

Description

Suillellus luridus features a cap that can range from 7 to 20 cm in diameter, initially globose in shape, becoming more convex to flat with age. The cap surface is dry, often cracking in dry weather, with a color that varies from reddish-brown to dark ochre. The stipe is robust, colored with a reddish or brownish base, and adorned with a network of raised veins or reticulations that are more pronounced towards the top. One of the most distinctive features of this species is its bright yellow to orange pores, which bruise blue when damaged.

The spore print of Suillellus luridus is olive-brown. Its spores are fusiform (spindle-shaped) and smooth, measuring 11-15 x 4-5 µm. The flesh of the mushroom is yellow, turning blue when exposed to air, a reaction that is particularly noticeable when the mushroom is cut or bruised.

Habitat and Distribution

Suillellus luridus is found in both deciduous and mixed woodlands, often in association with oaks and beeches. It prefers calcareous soils and is distributed across Europe and Asia, from the British Isles to Korea and Japan. The fruiting season extends from summer to autumn, depending on the local climate.

Edibility

The lurid bolete is considered edible, but only after thorough cooking, as it contains toxins that are destroyed by heat. It is crucial to distinguish it from similar-looking poisonous species, such as those in the genus Amanita. Due to its strong flavor, it is often used in small quantities to flavor dishes.

Conservation

While Suillellus luridus is not currently listed as endangered, its reliance on specific forest habitats makes it susceptible to the effects of deforestation and habitat degradation. Conservation efforts aimed at preserving woodland ecosystems are essential for the continued survival of this species.

See Also

• Mycorrhiza
• Boletaceae
• Forest conservation