Pisolithus tinctorius
ExploreFungi
Pisolithus tinctorius
Pisolithus tinctorius
Pisolithus tinctorius, also known as the dog turd fungus, is a unique mushroom that resembles animal droppings. It plays an essential role in forest ecosystems by aiding in decomposition.
Habitat: Forests
Appearance
The Pisolithus tinctorius is a distinctive yellow to ochre-brown fungus, often appearing like a lumpy, misshapen puffball or earthball. Its surface can be smooth to warted, and when mature, it breaks open to reveal a dark, powdery mass of spores. Internally, it is filled with small, pea-like compartments called peridioles.
KingdomFungiPhylumBasidiomycotaClassAgaricomycetesOrderBoletalesFamilySclerodermataceaeGenusPisolithus
Category
FungiRarity
Common
Danger
2/5 · Low
Snaps
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Interesting facts
Farmers sometimes add its spores to tree seedlings to help them grow bigger and stronger!
Its nickname 'dyeball' comes from its powerful pigments used by artists for dyeing textiles!
This fungus can help clean up polluted soil by absorbing heavy metals, like a tiny natural sponge!
While not tasty, its unusual internal structure looks like tiny peas packed together!
Special abilities
Ability
Nutrient Extractor
Pisolithus tinctorius forms a special partnership with tree roots that helps them absorb vital nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen.
Ability
Nature's Dyer
Pisolithus tinctorius has unique pigments inside that allow it to be used as a natural dye, creating beautiful yellow and brown colors.
Ability
Drought Defender
Pisolithus tinctorius helps host trees tolerate drought and poor soil conditions, making them stronger in challenging environments.
Measurements & details
- Height
- 5-20 cm
- Edibility
- inedible
- Growth Substrate
- soil
- Season
- Summer and fall
- Spore Color
- Dark brown
Ecological connections
symbiotic with
Ponderosa Pine
Pinus ponderosa
Helps pine absorb water and nutrients from poor soils.
symbiotic with
English Oak
Quercus robur
Forms mycorrhizal connections, boosting oak tree growth.
symbiotic with
Blue Gum
Eucalyptus globulus
Enhances nutrient uptake for eucalyptus trees in various climates.
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.
Decomposer
Describes organisms that break down dead organic material, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem.
Forest
Forest habitats are terrestrial environments dominated by dense tree cover, supporting a high diversity of plant and animal life.
Also known as
Dyeball
Collections
Safety
Danger
2/5 · Low
Avoid touching or consuming wild mushrooms as some can be harmful. Always admire them from a safe distance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall is Pisolithus tinctorius?
5-20 cm
Is Pisolithus tinctorius edible?
inedible
Where is Pisolithus tinctorius usually found?
Forests
What does Pisolithus tinctorius grow on?
soil
When is Pisolithus tinctorius in season?
Summer and fall
What color are Pisolithus tinctorius spores?
Dark brown
Snap Map
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