Psathyrella candolleana - Псатирелла Кандолля - Pale brittlestem

Psathyrella candolleana - Псатирелла Кандолля - Pale brittlestem - Weißlicher Düngerling 7/19/22

Psathyrella candolleana, also known as the Pale brittlestem, is a common mushroom in the Psathyrellaceae family. The cap measures 2 to 6 cm in diameter and is initially bell-shaped, becoming more convex with age. It is pale brown to grayish-brown in color, often with a lighter margin. The gills of Psathyrella candolleana are initially pale, turning darker brown as the mushroom matures. The stipe measures 3 to 9 cm in height and 0.3 to 0.8 cm in thickness, with a white to pale brown color and is often fragile and brittle. The mushroom is considered inedible due to its fragile nature and lack of significant culinary value. Psathyrella candolleana produces ellipsoid spores, measuring 7 to 9 µm in length and 4 to 6 µm in width, with a dark brown spore print. This mushroom is commonly found in grassy areas, woodlands, and disturbed habitats, such as gardens and parks. It often grows in clusters, particularly on decaying wood and wood debris. The Pale brittlestem has a widespread distribution, occurring throughout North America, Europe, and Asia. The chemistry of Psathyrella candolleana is not well-studied, but it is known to contain various compounds responsible for its appearance and fragility. As a decomposer, Psathyrella candolleana plays an essential role in breaking down organic matter and recycling nutrients within ecosystems. Although not a popular edible mushroom, Psathyrella candolleana is an interesting subject for study by amateur mycologists due to its delicate structure and widespread occurrence. In some regions, Psathyrella candolleana is considered an indicator of healthy ecosystems due to its preference for growing on decaying wood. The Pale brittlestem shares its habitat with various other Psathyrella species, making it essential to pay close attention to identifying features when observing and studying these mushrooms in the field.