Smooth black truffle (Tuber macrosporum)
Systematics:- Department: Ascomycota (Ascomycetes)
- Subdivision: Pezizomycotina (Pesizomycotins)
- Class: Pezizomycetes (Pecicomycetes)
- Subclass: Pezizomycetidae (Pecicomycetes)
- Order: Pezizales
- Family: Tuberaceae (Truffle)
- Genus: Tuber (Truffle)
- Species: Tuber macrosporum (Smooth black truffle)
Synonyms:
- Tuber macrosporum;
- Trufa negra
Smooth black truffle (Tuber macrosporum) is a variety of mushrooms belonging to the Truffle family and the Truffle genus.
External description
The fruit body of a smooth black truffle is characterized by a reddish-black color, often up to black. The mushroom pulp is dark brown in color, and white streaks are almost always visible on it. The main distinguishing feature of the smooth black truffle (Tuber macrosporum) is its perfectly smooth surface.
Season and habitat of the fungus
Active fruiting of a smooth black truffle occurs during early autumn (September) and before winter (December). You can meet this type of truffle mainly in Italy.
Edibility
Conditionally edible.
Similar types and differences from them
Outwardly, the smooth black truffle (Tuber macrosporum) is not similar to other varieties of this mushroom, however, in its aroma and taste it can slightly resemble a white truffle. True, the latter has a more pungent smell than a smooth black truffle.
Summer truffle (Tuber aestivum) also slightly resembles a smooth black truffle. True, its aroma is less pronounced, and the pulp is characterized by a lighter shade. The winter truffle (Tuber brumale), unlike the smooth black truffle, can only be found in the northern regions of the area.