How Do You Spell CORTINARIUS MUTABILIS?

1. Cortinarius mutabilis is a species of mushroom belonging to the genus Cortinarius, commonly known as the Verdigris Webcap. It is a basidiomycete fungus found in deciduous and coniferous woodlands across Europe and North America.

   The cap of Cortinarius mutabilis is usually convex or bell-shaped, measuring around 4-10cm in diameter. The color of the cap is known to be highly variable, with shades ranging from yellow-brown to greenish-brown, often developing a distinguishing greenish-blue hue in maturity. The cap surface is sticky when moist, adorned with fibrils that give it a web-like appearance.

   Underneath the cap, the creamy to greenish gills are closely spaced and adnate or slightly decurrent. The fruiting body's stem is typically cylindrical or slightly bulbous at the base, measuring 5-12cm in length. Its color ranges from pale to dark yellow-brown, often with a slightly greenish tinge. The stem is covered with scattered powdery scales near the apex and bears a thin, delicate white veil (cortina) when young.

   Cortinarius mutabilis usually grows in mycorrhizal association with various trees, including oak, beech, pine, and spruce. It commonly appears in late summer and early autumn, fruiting singly or scattered in small groups.

   Although some species of Cortinarius are edible, it is important to note that Cortinarius mutabilis is considered inedible due to its variable toxicity. The species contains toxins that can cause gastrointestinal distress if ingested. Therefore, it is strongly recommended to avoid consumption and focus on appreciating this beautiful mushroom species in its natural habitat.

Common Misspellings for CORTINARIUS MUTABILIS

The word "Cortinarius" is derived from the Latin word "cortina", meaning curtain. This refers to the cobweb-like partial veil that covers the gills of the mushroom when it is young.

The specific epithet "mutabilis" is derived from the Latin word "mutare", which means to change or alter. It describes the mushroom's characteristic of changing color as it matures. The cap of Cortinarius mutabilis starts off orange-yellow and gradually turns reddish-brown with age.

Overall, the etymology of "Cortinarius Mutabilis" reflects the morphological features and color-changing nature of this particular mushroom species.