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Conocybe is a genus of mushrooms with a conical or bell-shaped cap and a long, thin stem. They are typically found in grassy areas and woodlands, feeding on decaying organic matter.
How to Identify
- Cap
- The cap is typically conical or bell-shaped, often with a smooth or slightly wrinkled surface. The color can range from tan to brown or ochre.
- Gills
- The gills are usually adnate to adnexed, meaning they are attached to the stem but not running down it. They are typically pale brown or ochre.
- Stem
- The stem is long, thin, and hollow, with a smooth surface. It is usually the same color as the cap or slightly lighter.
- Flesh
- Thin and fragile.
- Fruiting body
- Small and delicate.
- Habitat
- Grassy areas, woodlands, and gardens.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: smooth or slightly wrinkled
- Growth Form: solitary or in small groups
- Spore Print: rusty brown
- Body color: tan to brown or ochre
- Odor: not distinctive
- Flesh bruises: no bruising
- Height: 3 to 8 cm
- Cap Diameter: 0.5 to 3 cm
- Nutrient gathering: saprotrophic
Toxic
DeadlySome species of Conocybe contain amatoxins, which are highly toxic and can cause liver damage and death. It is essential to avoid consuming any Conocybe mushrooms unless you are absolutely sure of their identification.
Quick Check
- Odor: not distinctive
- Fruiting: spring to autumn
- Substrate: grass, soil, decaying organic matter
Where to Find
Grasslands
Grassy areas such as lawns and meadows.
Woodlands
Woodlands and forests with decaying leaf litter.
Gardens
Gardens and cultivated soils.
Finding Tips
Cap Shape
Look for small, delicate mushrooms with a conical or bell-shaped cap.
Habitat
Check grassy areas and places with decaying organic matter, especially after rain.
Color and Texture
Note the color and texture of the cap and stem, as these can vary between species.
Similar Species
Parasola auricoma
mushroom
Also known as: Dune Brittlestem
Panaeolus foenisecii
mushroom
Also known as: Haymaker Mushroom
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Basidiomycota
- Class
- Agaricomycetes
- Order
- Agaricales
- Family
- Bolbitiaceae
- Genus
- Conocybe
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