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The Parachute Mushroom (Marasmius) is a genus of mushrooms known for their small size, delicate structure, and ability to revive from a dried state. They are commonly found in various habitats, including lawns, meadows, and forests. Many species are saprophytic, feeding on decaying organic matter, while some form mycorrhizal associations with plants.
How to Identify
- Cap
- Small, convex to flattened, often with pleats or ridges. Color ranges from white to cream or tan.
- Gills
- Widely spaced, often attached or running slightly down the stem.
- Stem
- Thin, wiry, and often darker in color than the cap.
- Flesh
- Thin and fragile.
- Fruiting body
- Small and delicate, typically found in groups or clusters.
- Habitat
- Lawns, meadows, and forest floors, growing on decaying organic matter.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Smooth, pleated
- Growth Form: Saprophytic
- Spore Print: White
- Body color: White to cream
- Odor: Mild or absent
- Flesh bruises: No bruising
- Height: 2-5 cm
- Cap Diameter: 0.5-3 cm
- Nutrient gathering: Decomposer
Safe
SafeGenerally considered non-toxic, but edibility varies among species. It is important to accurately identify the mushroom before consumption.
Quick Check
- Odor: Mild or absent
- Fruiting: Late spring to autumn
- Substrate: Decaying organic matter
Where to Find
Lawns
Found in lawns and grassy areas.
Forest Floors
Grows on decaying leaves and woody debris.
Meadows
Occurs in meadows and pastures.
Finding Tips
Identify by Appearance
Look for small, white or cream-colored mushrooms with a pleated cap.
Search After Rain
Check grassy areas and forest floors after rainfall.
Inspect Decaying Matter
Examine decaying leaves and woody debris for clusters of mushrooms.
Similar Species
Mycena species
Mycena
Also known as: Bonnet Mushroom
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Basidiomycota
- Class
- Agaricomycetes
- Order
- Agaricales
- Family
- Marasmiaceae
- Genus
- Marasmius
Storage Information
- Max Temperature: 25°C
- Freezing duration: N/A
- Min Temperature: 2°C
- Refrigeration: 1-2 days
How to Clean
Gently brush off any dirt or debris from the cap and stem. Avoid soaking in water to prevent them from becoming waterlogged.
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