Panaeolus papilionaceus - Панеолус мотыльковый - Petticoat Mottlegill - Schmetterlings-Häubling 10/9/22
Panaeolus papilionaceus, commonly known as the Petticoat Mottlegill, is a basidiomycete fungus belonging to the family Bolbitiaceae. It is characterized by a small to medium-sized, convex to bell-shaped cap that is initially dark brown but fades to a lighter brown with age and can reach up to 6 cm in diameter. The cap margin is often adorned with a frilly, skirt-like edge, which is the source of its common name. The slender, fragile stem, which may grow up to 10 cm tall, is white to pale brown and lacks a ring.
Advanced scientific research has shown that Panaeolus papilionaceus 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 Petticoat Mottlegill is widely distributed across Europe, North America, Asia, and parts of Russia, where it is known as Панеолус мотыльковый. It typically inhabits grasslands, meadows, and other environments rich in organic matter, such as decaying plant materials and dung.
Panaeolus papilionaceus produces black to dark brown, elliptical spores that measure approximately 12-18 µm by 7-11 µm. The spore print is also black to dark 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 Panaeolus papilionaceus 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 Schmetterlings-Häubling, a name that reflects its distinctive cap margin resembling a butterfly's wings and its close relationship with the Bolbitiaceae family.
Panaeolus papilionaceus - Панеолус мотыльковый - Petticoat Mottlegill - Schmetterlings-Häubling