Cortinarius mucosus - Паутинник слизистый - Slimy Webcap

Cortinarius mucosus - Паутинник слизистый - Slimy Webcap - Schleimiger Schleierling 9/25/09—10/12/24

Cortinarius mucosus, commonly known as the Slimy Webcap or Schleimiger Schleierling, is a medium-sized basidiomycete mushroom in the family Cortinariaceae. The mushroom is characterized by its slimy, ochre-brown cap that can range from 5 to 12 cm in diameter. The cap surface is sticky, especially when wet, and can be either smooth or slightly wrinkled. The gills of the Slimy Webcap are adnate to slightly sinuate and have a pale brown color that turns rusty-brown as the mushroom matures. The stipe measures 5 to 12 cm in height and 1.5 to 2.5 cm in thickness, with a slimy surface and a white to pale yellow color. A cortina, or cobweb-like veil, is present in young specimens but usually disappears as the mushroom matures. Cortinarius mucosus is a mycorrhizal fungus that forms symbiotic relationships with various tree species, particularly conifers and occasionally deciduous trees like beech. These relationships help both the fungus and the tree absorb nutrients from the soil. The Slimy Webcap is predominantly found in the Northern Hemisphere, specifically in Europe and North America, where it grows in coniferous and mixed forests. The fruiting period for Cortinarius mucosus is generally from late summer to autumn. The mushroom can be found growing solitary or in scattered groups. The spores of this species are elliptical, measuring 10 to 13 µm in length and 5 to 7 µm in width, with a rough surface. The slimy texture of Cortinarius mucosus is due to the presence of a gelatinous layer on the cap and stipe surface, which helps protect the mushroom from desiccation. Though not well-studied, it is possible that the slime layer contains compounds of interest for various applications. However, Cortinarius mucosus is not considered an edible mushroom, as it may contain toxins that can cause gastrointestinal issues if ingested. Cortinarius mucosus, like other Cortinarius species, plays an important ecological role in maintaining the health of forest ecosystems. This mushroom can serve as an indicator species, providing information about the overall health of a forest and the effectiveness of conservation efforts.