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Tapinella atrotomentosa, commonly known as the Alder Roll-rim, is a wood-decaying fungus typically found on decaying alder wood. It is characterized by its dark brown to blackish-brown cap and a velvety, dark brown to black stem. While not considered highly toxic, it is generally not recommended for consumption due to its potential to cause gastrointestinal upset in some individuals.
How to Identify
- Cap
- The cap is typically 5-15 cm in diameter, convex to flattened, and dark brown to blackish-brown. The surface is dry and may be slightly velvety. The margin is often inrolled, especially when young.
- Gills
- The gills are decurrent (running down the stem), close, and yellowish-brown, bruising darker when handled.
- Stem
- The stem is stout, short, and velvety, with a dark brown to blackish-brown color. It is typically eccentric or lateral, meaning it is attached to the cap off-center.
- Flesh
- The flesh is thick, firm, and yellowish-brown to brown. It may have a slightly acidic or woody odor.
- Fruiting body
- The fruiting body of Tapinella atrotomentosa is a mushroom with a cap and stem structure.
- Habitat
- Tapinella atrotomentosa is commonly found on decaying alder wood, both logs and stumps. It can also be found on other hardwoods and occasionally on conifers.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Dry, slightly velvety
- Growth Form: Saprophytic
- Spore Print: Brown
- Body color: Dark brown to blackish-brown
- Odor: Slightly acidic or woody
- Flesh bruises: Darker
- Height: 2-8 cm
- Cap Diameter: 5-15 cm
- Nutrient gathering: Decomposer
Safe
Mild ToxicityWhile not considered highly toxic, Tapinella atrotomentosa can cause gastrointestinal upset in some individuals. It is generally not recommended for consumption.
Quick Check
- Odor: Slightly acidic or woody
- Fruiting: Grows on decaying wood
- Substrate: Decaying alder wood
Where to Find
North America
Common in the Pacific Northwest and other regions with alder trees.
Europe
Widespread in areas with alder forests.
Finding Tips
Look for Alder
Focus your search in areas with a high concentration of alder trees, especially near decaying wood.
Check Decaying Wood
Examine logs, stumps, and fallen branches for the presence of mushrooms growing directly from the wood.
Similar Species
Paxillus involutus
a poisonous mushroom
Also known as: Brown Roll-rim
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Basidiomycota
- Class
- Agaricomycetes
- Order
- Boletales
- Family
- Tapinellaceae
- Genus
- Tapinella
Storage Information
- Max Temperature: N/A
- Freezing duration: N/A
- Min Temperature: N/A
- Refrigeration: N/A
How to Clean
Cleaning Tapinella atrotomentosa is not typically necessary as it is not commonly consumed. If you intend to sample it, gently brush off any debris and avoid washing, as the mushroom can absorb water.
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