How to identify Fried Chicken Mushroom, Clustered Domecap

To correctly identify Fried Chicken Mushroom, Clustered Domecap (Lyophyllum decastes), 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 is typically 3-10 cm in diameter, convex to flattened, and grayish-brown to tan in color. The surface is smooth and may be slightly sticky when moist.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   The gills are crowded, white to cream-colored, and adnate to slightly decurrent.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The stem is 4-8 cm long and 1-2 cm thick, white to pale brown, and smooth to slightly fibrous. It lacks a ring.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is white and firm.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   Grows in dense clusters.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Found in disturbed ground, grassy areas, and along roadsides.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Smooth, slightly sticky when moist

Growth Form

Clustered

Spore Print

White

Body color

White to pale brown

Odor

Mild, pleasant

Flesh bruises

Does not typically bruise

Height

4-8 cm

Cap Diameter

3-10 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Adnate to slightly decurrent
• Stem shape: Cylindrical or slightly tapering
• Stem surface: Smooth to slightly fibrous
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: Solid

Explore Fried Chicken Mushroom, Clustered Domecap