Got a photo? Identify mushrooms instantly with the Mushby app
Open the appDescription
Psathyrella ammophila, commonly known as the Dune Brittlestem, is a species of agaric fungus in the family Psathyrellaceae. It is characterized by its fragile, brittle fruiting body and its preference for sandy habitats, particularly dunes. The cap is typically conical to convex, with a smooth surface and a color ranging from pale ochre to tan. The gills are closely spaced and adnate to adnexed, initially pale but darkening to brown as the spores mature. The stem is slender and fragile, often with a slightly bulbous base. This species is found in coastal regions, where it grows in association with sand dunes and other sandy substrates.
How to Identify
- Cap
- The cap is conical to convex, with a smooth surface. The color ranges from pale ochre to tan, often with a slightly darker center. The cap margin may be slightly incurved when young.
- Gills
- The gills are closely spaced and adnate to adnexed. Initially, they are pale, but they darken to brown as the spores mature. The gill edges are typically even.
- Stem
- The stem is slender and fragile, typically measuring 3 to 6 cm in length and 2 to 4 mm in diameter. It is often slightly bulbous at the base and has a smooth surface. The stem color is similar to the cap, ranging from pale ochre to tan.
- Flesh
- The flesh is thin and fragile, with a pale color. It lacks any distinctive odor or taste.
- Fruiting body
- The fruiting body of Psathyrella ammophila is small and fragile, with a cap diameter typically ranging from 1 to 3 cm. The overall appearance is delicate and ephemeral.
- Habitat
- Psathyrella ammophila is found in coastal regions, where it grows in association with sand dunes and other sandy substrates. It is often found growing in clusters or scattered groups.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Smooth
- Growth Form: Gregarious
- Spore Print: Dark brown
- Body color: Tan to ochre
- Odor: Indistinct
- Flesh bruises: No bruising
- Height: 3-6 cm
- Cap Diameter: 1-3 cm
- Nutrient gathering: Saprobic
Safe
SafePsathyrella ammophila is not known to be toxic, but it is not typically consumed due to its small size and fragile nature. It is generally considered inedible.
Quick Check
- Odor: Indistinct
- Fruiting: Autumn
- Substrate: Sandy soils
Where to Find
Coastal Dunes
Psathyrella ammophila is commonly found in coastal sand dune habitats, where it grows in association with grasses and other dune vegetation.
Sandy Soils
This species can also be found in other sandy soil environments, such as coastal grasslands and disturbed areas with sandy substrates.
Finding Tips
Search Coastal Areas
Focus your search in coastal regions with well-developed sand dune systems.
Look for Sandy Habitats
Examine areas with sandy soils, particularly those with sparse vegetation cover.
Check After Rainfall
Psathyrella ammophila often fruits after periods of rainfall, so plan your search accordingly.
Similar Species
Psathyrella conopilea
Mushroom
Also known as: Conical Brittlestem
Psathyrella corrugis
Mushroom
Also known as: Wrinkled Brittlestem
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Basidiomycota
- Class
- Agaricomycetes
- Order
- Agaricales
- Family
- Psathyrellaceae
- Genus
- Psathyrella
Storage Information
- Max Temperature: 20
- Freezing duration: N/A
- Min Temperature: 2
- Refrigeration: 1-2 days
How to Clean
Due to its fragile nature, Psathyrella ammophila is difficult to clean. Gently brush off any sand or debris with a soft brush. Avoid washing the mushrooms, as they can easily become waterlogged and damaged.
Explore Dune Brittlestem
Identify mushrooms anywhere
Free on iOS, Android, and Web. Photo identification, full database, and your personal collection.