Enteridium raincoat (Reticularia lycoperdon)
Synonyms :
Enteridium lycoperdon
- False raincoat
- Strongylium fuliginoides
- Fuligo lycoperdon
- Mucor lycogalus
Enteridium raincoat (Reticularia lycoperdon Bull.) - the mushroom belongs to the Reticularia family, is a representative of the Enteridium genus.
External description
Enteridium raincoat is a prominent representative of the slime mold. This fungus goes through several stages of development, the first of which is the plasmodium phase. During this period, the incipient fungus feeds on inorganic particles, mold, bacteria, yeast. The main thing at this stage is a sufficient level of moisture in the air. If it is dry outside, the plasmodium is converted into sclerotium, which is inactive until the onset of suitable conditions with optimal humidity. The reproductive phase of the fungus development is characterized by a white swelling element on the trunks of dead trees.
The life cycle of raincoat enteridium consists of two stages: feeding (plasmodium) and reproduction (sporangia). During the first, plasmodial, phase, individual cells merge with each other during cytoplasmic flow.
During the reproductive phase, raincoat enteridium acquires a spherical shape, becoming spherical or elongated. The diameter of the fruiting body varies between 50-80 mm. Initially, the mushroom is very sticky and sticky. Outwardly, it resembles slug eggs. The completely smooth surface of the mushroom is characterized by a silvery color and gradually develops. When the mushroom ripens, it turns brown and breaks down into small particles, showering the areas underneath with spores. The fruit body is fleshy, cushion-shaped.
Spores of puffball enteridium are spherical or ovoid, brown and with spots on the surface. their size is 5-7 microns. Wind and rain carry them long distances after crumbling.
Season and habitat of the fungus
Enteridium raincoat (Reticularia lycoperdon) grows on logs, stumps, dry alder twigs. This type of mushroom prefers wet areas (areas near swamps, streams and rivers). It was also found that these mushrooms grow on the dead trunks of elms, elderberries, hawthorns, poplars, hornbeams, hazels and pines. Fruiting after late spring frosts, as well as in the fall.
It is found in Wales, Scotland, England, Ireland, Europe, Mexico.
Edibility
The mushroom is considered inedible, but not poisonous.
Similar types and differences from them
Enteridium raincoat (Reticularia lycoperdon) is not similar to other types of slime mold fungi.
Other information about the mushroom
Enteridium raincoat in the plasmodium phase becomes a haven for eggs of adult flies. On the surface of the fungus, larvae pupate, and then young flies on their paws carry mushroom spores over long distances.
Photo: Vitaly Gumenyuk