Cortinarius
ExploreFungi
Cortinarius
Cortinarius
Cortinarius is a type of mushroom that grows in forests. It has a unique cap with different colors and patterns, making it fascinating to discover during nature walks.
Habitat: Forests
Appearance
The Cortinarius is a diverse mushroom genus, often recognized by its rusty brown spores. Many species have caps in shades of brown, yellow, purple, or red, some with a slimy texture or fibrous surface, and a delicate web-like veil on the stem.
KingdomFungiPhylumBasidiomycotaClassAgaricomycetesOrderAgaricalesFamilyCortinariaceae
Category
FungiRarity
Common
Danger
2/5 · Low
Snaps
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Interesting facts
Many Cortinarius mushrooms are so hard to identify, even experts struggle!
Some poisonous species can cause kidney failure days after being eaten!
Their name means 'curtain-bearer' because of their unique veil.
This huge mushroom family contains thousands of different species!
Special abilities
Ability
Nutrient Networker
Cortinarius forms a symbiotic relationship with trees, sharing vital nutrients they absorb from the soil because of its root connections.
Ability
Spore Protector
It has a special web-like veil called a cortina that protects its developing gills and spores that helps them mature safely.
Ability
Toxin Producer
Many species produce powerful chemicals that make them inedible or poisonous, because this deters hungry animals.
Measurements & details
- Height
- 3-20 cm
- Edibility
- poisonous
- Cap Diameter
- 2-18 cm
- Growth Substrate
- soil
- Season
- Late summer to fall
- Spore Color
- Rusty brown
Ecological connections
symbiotic with
Norway Spruce
Picea abies
Helps spruce trees absorb water and nutrients.
symbiotic with
European Beech
Fagus sylvatica
Forms mutually beneficial root partnerships with beech trees.
symbiotic with
Scots Pine
Pinus sylvestris
Essential for nutrient exchange with pine root systems.
symbiotic with
English Oak
Quercus robur
Many species form mycorrhizal associations with oak trees.
Traits
Mycorrhizal
This trait describes a symbiotic relationship between a fungus and the roots of a plant, benefiting both organisms.
Spore Producing
Spore-producing organisms reproduce by releasing small, often single-celled, reproductive units called spores.
Colorful
Colorful describes organisms or objects displaying a wide range of bright and distinct colors.
Ancient Lineage
This trait signifies organisms belonging to a very old evolutionary group with ancestors dating back millions of years.
Forest
Forest habitats are terrestrial environments dominated by dense tree cover, supporting a high diversity of plant and animal life.
Also known as
No aliases listed yet.
Collections
Safety
Danger
2/5 · Low
Never touch or eat any mushrooms without an adult's permission and guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall is Cortinarius?
3-20 cm
Is Cortinarius edible?
poisonous
How big is Cortinarius?
2-18 cm
Where is Cortinarius usually found?
Forests
What does Cortinarius grow on?
soil
When is Cortinarius in season?
Late summer to fall
What color are Cortinarius spores?
Rusty brown
Snap Map
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Recent Snaps
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