Hygrophorus eburneus - Гигрофор желтовато-белый - Ivory Waxy Cap

Hygrophorus eburneus - Гигрофор желтовато-белый - Ivory Waxy Cap - Elfenbein-Schneckling 10/22/22

Hygrophorus eburneus, commonly known as the Ivory Waxy Cap or Elfenbein-Schneckling, is a small to medium-sized basidiomycete mushroom belonging to the family Hygrophoraceae. It is characterized by a convex to broadly convex cap, measuring 2-7 cm in diameter, with a smooth, slimy surface and a color that ranges from ivory to pale yellowish-white. The stem is slender, measuring 4-10 cm long and 0.5-1.5 cm thick, with a whitish to pale yellowish color and a slimy texture. The gills are widely spaced, decurrent, and white to cream-colored. Hygrophorus eburneus is known for its ivory to pale yellowish-white coloration and slimy texture, which set it apart from other Hygrophorus species. This fungus is primarily distributed across Europe and North America, where it can be found in deciduous and mixed forests, forming mycorrhizal associations with various tree species, particularly oak and beech. It prefers moist, nutrient-rich soil and can be encountered from late summer to late autumn. The spores of Hygrophorus eburneus are smooth, elliptical, and measure approximately 8-12 x 4-6 µm. 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. Hygrophorus eburneus is considered edible, with a mild taste and a somewhat slimy texture. However, mushroom foragers should exercise caution when collecting mushrooms to avoid misidentification and accidental consumption of toxic species.