Got a photo? Identify mushrooms instantly with the Mushby app
Open the appDescription
Deconica coprophila, commonly known as the dung-loving psathyrella or the dung psathyrella, is a species of mushroom-forming fungus in the family Strophariaceae. It is found growing on dung in Europe, North America, and Australia.
How to Identify
- Cap
- The cap of Deconica coprophila is typically 1 to 3 cm in diameter, initially conical or bell-shaped, then becoming convex or flattened with age. The surface is smooth and moist, with a reddish-brown to ochraceous color that fades to yellowish-brown as it dries.
- Gills
- The gills are adnate to adnexed, crowded, and initially pale brown, becoming darker brown to purplish-brown as the spores mature. The gill edges are often fringed or finely toothed.
- Stem
- The stem is slender, cylindrical, and typically 3 to 7 cm long and 2 to 4 mm thick. It is brittle and hollow, with a smooth to slightly fibrillose surface. The color is pale brown to ochraceous, often with a darker base. A ring or annulus is absent.
- Flesh
- The flesh is thin and fragile, with a pale brown color.
- Fruiting body
- The fruiting bodies of Deconica coprophila are small to medium-sized mushrooms. The cap is typically 1 to 3 cm in diameter, initially conical or bell-shaped, then becoming convex or flattened with age. The surface is smooth and moist, with a reddish-brown to ochraceous color that fades to yellowish-brown as it dries.
- Habitat
- This mushroom is typically found growing on dung, especially that of herbivores, in pastures, meadows, and other grassy areas. It can also be found on enriched soil or decaying plant matter. It is widely distributed in Europe, North America, and Australia, and fruits from spring to autumn.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Smooth, moist
- Growth Form: Gregarious
- Spore Print: Dark brown to purplish-brown
- Body color: Reddish-brown to ochraceous, fading to yellowish-brown
- Odor: Mild, fungal
- Flesh bruises: No bruising
- Height: 3-7 cm
- Cap Diameter: 1-3 cm
- Nutrient gathering: Saprobic
Safe
SafeDeconica coprophila is not considered toxic, but it is not recommended for consumption due to its small size and the substrate on which it grows (dung).
Quick Check
- Odor: Mild, fungal
- Fruiting: Spring to Autumn
- Substrate: Dung, enriched soil
Where to Find
Pastures and Meadows
Look for Deconica coprophila in pastures and meadows where livestock graze, as it commonly grows on dung.
Grassy Areas
Search in grassy areas with enriched soil or decaying plant matter, as this mushroom can also be found in these habitats.
Europe, North America, and Australia
This species is widely distributed in Europe, North America, and Australia, so check local field guides and databases for specific locations.
Finding Tips
Check Dung
Examine dung, especially that of herbivores, for small, reddish-brown to ochraceous mushrooms.
Look in Grassy Areas
Search in grassy areas with enriched soil or decaying plant matter, particularly after periods of rain.
Use Field Guides
Consult local field guides and online databases to confirm identification and find specific locations in your region.
Similar Species
Psathyrella candolleana
mushroom
Also known as: Pale Brittlestem
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Basidiomycota
- Class
- Agaricomycetes
- Order
- Agaricales
- Family
- Strophariaceae
- Genus
- Deconica
Storage Information
- Max Temperature: 4°C (39°F)
- Freezing duration: Not recommended
- Min Temperature: 2°C (36°F)
- Refrigeration: 1-2 days
How to Clean
Cleaning Deconica coprophila mushrooms is not typically recommended, as they are small and fragile. If necessary, gently brush off any debris with a soft brush. Avoid washing them, as they can become waterlogged and lose their flavor.
Explore Dung-loving Psathyrella
Identify mushrooms anywhere
Free on iOS, Android, and Web. Photo identification, full database, and your personal collection.