Cantharellula umbonata - Кантареллула бугорковая - Umbonate Chanterelle

Cantharellula umbonata - Кантареллула бугорковая - Umbonate Chanterelle - Höckeriger Scheinpfifferling 9/19—10/1/22

Cantharellula umbonata, commonly known as the Umbonate Chanterelle or Höckeriger Scheinpfifferling, is a small basidiomycete mushroom belonging to the family Hygrophoraceae. It is characterized by a convex to umbonate cap, measuring 1-4 cm in diameter, with a smooth, slightly wrinkled surface and a color that ranges from grayish-brown to dark brown. The stem is slender, measuring 2-5 cm long and 0.2-0.6 cm thick, with a whitish to grayish color and a smooth texture. The gills are narrowly spaced, adnate to adnexed, and whitish to grayish in color. Cantharellula umbonata is known for its small size and umbonate cap, which sets it apart from true chanterelles (Cantharellus spp.). This fungus is primarily distributed across Europe and North America, where it can be found in coniferous and mixed forests, often growing in moss or needle beds. It prefers moist, acidic soil and can be encountered from late summer to late autumn. The spores of Cantharellula umbonata are smooth, ellipsoidal, and measure approximately 4-7 x 3-4 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. Cantharellula umbonata is considered edible, although it is not highly valued as a culinary ingredient due to its small size and mild taste. Mushroom foragers should exercise caution when collecting mushrooms to avoid misidentification and accidental consumption of toxic species.