How to identify Mottlegill

To correctly identify Mottlegill (Panaeolus), 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 bell-shaped, smooth, and ranges in color from tan to brown. It often has a mottled appearance when dry.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   The gills are adnate to adnexed, close, and have a grayish or mottled appearance due to uneven spore maturation.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The stem is slender, brittle, and typically has a smooth surface.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   Thin and fragile.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   Small to medium-sized with a bell-shaped cap and slender stem.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Grows on dung or in grassy areas enriched with manure.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Smooth

Growth Form

Gregarious

Spore Print

Black

Body color

Tan to brown

Odor

Faint or farinaceous

Flesh bruises

No bruising reaction

Height

3-8 cm

Cap Diameter

1-4 cm

Fruit body characteristics

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

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