Inocybe saliceticola

Inocybe saliceticola: A Fungus with a Willowy Tale

Imagine stumbling upon a hidden gem in the dense, moist forests of the Nordic region. This is where you might encounter Inocybe saliceticola, a fascinating fungus that has captured the attention of mycologists and nature enthusiasts alike. With its unique shape and habitat preferences, this species stands out like a rare find in a treasure hunt.

The Morphological Marvels of Inocybe saliceticola

When you come across an Inocybe saliceticola, the first thing that might catch your eye is its irregular bulb at the base of the stem. This feature, much like a quirky character in a story, sets it apart from other fungi. The thick protrusions on its spores add to its distinctive appearance, making each mushroom a one-of-a-kind specimen.

But what about those mushrooms that seem almost completely smooth? These are just another variation of the same intriguing species. The cap color can range from yellow-brown to pale brown, with an umbo (a small bump) that contrasts in color, adding depth and complexity to its appearance. The stem, measuring 0.7-6.2cm long and 1.5-6.5mm thick, is covered in a fine white powder, giving it a delicate touch of elegance.

As you delve deeper into the microscopic world of Inocybe saliceticola, you’ll discover that its gills are adnate (attached to the stem) and pale grey to grey-brown when young, darkening as they mature. The flesh is described as ‘fungoid,’ meaning it resembles the texture and appearance of a fungus, with no strong smell or taste.

A Mycorrhizal Mystery

But why does Inocybe saliceticola grow in such close association with willow trees? This mycorrhizal relationship is like an invisible thread connecting the fungus to its host. The species has been found growing in moist thickets or woodland close to shores, often alongside other plants like Lysimachia thyrsiflora, Galium palustre, and Calamagrostis canescens.

These habitats are not just random; they provide the perfect environment for Inocybe saliceticola. The moist conditions and the presence of willow trees create a symbiotic relationship that benefits both the fungus and its host. This is why you might find this species in Finland, particularly in the north, south, and hemiboreal zones, as well as near rivers like Klarälven in Sweden.

Distinctive Features and Close Relatives

While Inocybe saliceticola is unique, it shares some characteristics with other species. For instance, its spores measure 7.2-11.6 μm by 5.1-7.9 μm, club-shaped basidia bear four spores, and yellowish pleurocystidia have crystal-like structures on the face of the gill. However, these features can vary slightly among different specimens.

Other species like Inocybe mixtilis, I. praetervisa, I. salicis-herbaceae, and I. substellata favor willow only in montane habitats, while I. salicis is rare in Nordic countries, collected from dunes. The spores of Inocybe dunensis are larger than those of Inocybe saliceticola, and the cystidia (specialized cells on the gills) are shorter. Similarly, Inocybe obtusiuscula has thicker cell walls, resulting in darker spores.

The phylogenetic analysis confirms that Inocybe obtusiuscula and Inocybe saliceticola are separate species. While Inocybe alnea and I. ochracea differ from Inocybe saliceticola by protruding nodules on spores, DNA analysis confirms their separation. It’s unclear if they associate with willow.

Conclusion: Inocybe saliceticola is a fascinating species that thrives in the moist habitats of the Nordic region, forming a unique relationship with willow trees. Its distinctive features and habitat preferences make it a valuable addition to the diverse world of fungi. Whether you’re a seasoned mycologist or just curious about nature’s hidden wonders, Inocybe saliceticola is definitely worth seeking out in its natural environment.