How to identify Dung-loving Psathyrella

To correctly identify Dung-loving Psathyrella (Deconica coprophila), check each of these features in order. Misidentification is the most common cause of mushroom poisoning, so cross-reference multiple sources.

Step-by-step identification

1. 1

   Cap

   Shape, color, surface texture, and diameter.

   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.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   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.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   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.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is thin and fragile, with a pale brown color.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   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.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   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

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Adnate to adnexed
• Stem shape: Cylindrical
• Stem surface: Smooth to slightly fibrillose
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: Hollow

Explore Dung-loving Psathyrella