Conocybe apala - Коноцибе молочная - White Dunce Cap

Conocybe apala - Коноцибе молочная - White Dunce Cap - Weißer Samtfußkrempling 9/21/22—9/7/24

Conocybe apala, commonly known as the White Dunce Cap, is a basidiomycete fungus belonging to the Bolbitiaceae family. It is characterized by a small, conical to bell-shaped cap that is initially white to cream-colored and can reach up to 2 cm in diameter. The cap often features radial grooves near the margin. The slender, fragile stem, which may grow up to 7 cm tall, is white and lacks a ring. Advanced scientific research has shown that Conocybe apala is a saprotrophic fungus, meaning it obtains nutrients by decomposing dead organic matter, primarily from plants. This species is considered inedible due to its small size and insubstantial flesh. The White Dunce Cap is widely distributed across Europe, North America, Asia, and parts of Russia, where it is known as Коноцибе молочная. It typically inhabits grasslands, lawns, and other environments rich in organic matter, such as decaying plant materials. Conocybe apala produces light brown to reddish-brown, elliptical spores that measure approximately 8-12 µm by 5-7 µm. The spore print is also light brown to reddish-brown, making it a key characteristic for identification. The number of spores produced per fruiting body can vary, depending on factors such as species, environmental conditions, and the size of the fruiting body, but generally, millions of spores can be produced by a single mushroom. Although Conocybe apala is not considered toxic, it is inedible due to its small size and lack of substantial flesh. Proper identification is essential when foraging for mushrooms to avoid accidental ingestion of harmful species. In German, this fungus is known as Weißer Samtfußkrempling, a name that reflects its white color and its close relationship with the Bolbitiaceae family.