Inocybe geophylla - Волоконница земляная - Earthy Inocybe

Inocybe geophylla - Волоконница земляная - Earthy Inocybe - Erdiger Faserling 9/18-19/22

Inocybe geophylla, commonly known as the Earthy Inocybe or Erdiger Faserling, is a small, mycorrhizal basidiomycete mushroom belonging to the Inocybaceae family. It is characterized by a conical to bell-shaped cap, measuring 1-4 cm in diameter, with a smooth to slightly fibrillose surface and a pale cream to white color. The stem is slender, measuring 2-5 cm long and 0.2-0.6 cm thick, and is typically the same color as the cap. The gills are adnate to adnexed, initially white or cream-colored, and become brownish-gray as the spores mature. Inocybe geophylla is known for its strong, earthy odor, which may be somewhat unpleasant to some individuals. The species is widely distributed across Europe and North America, where it can be found in both deciduous and coniferous forests, forming mycorrhizal associations with various tree species. It typically grows in soil, often in mossy areas or grasslands, and is most commonly encountered from late spring to autumn. The spores of Inocybe geophylla are smooth, elliptical, and measure approximately 7-9 x 4-5 µm. Like other Inocybe species, it produces a large number of spores, with a single mature fruiting body capable of releasing millions of them. These spores are dispersed by the wind, allowing the fungus to colonize new areas. Inocybe geophylla is considered inedible and potentially toxic, as it contains the toxic alkaloid muscarine, which can cause symptoms such as sweating, salivation, vomiting, and diarrhea if ingested. Mushroom foragers should exercise caution when collecting mushrooms to avoid accidental poisoning.