About Coprinellus domesticus (Bolton) Vilgalys, Hopple & Jacq.Johnson
Description: The cap of Coprinellus domesticus, commonly called the firerug inkcap, is yellowish, thin, and grooved. It reaches up to 5 centimetres (2 in) across, starting in a closed umbrella-like shape before expanding to become nearly flat. The gills are adnexed, closely spaced, and whitish when young, then darken as they mature. The stem grows up to 10 cm (4 in) long and 8 millimetres (3⁄8 in) wide. This species produces a black spore print. The common name firerug inkcap comes from the bright orange carpet-like layer of hyphae that grows around the mushroom. This covering is called an ozonium, which resembles aboveground mycelium. The ozonium is not always present, and it can even grow when no mushrooms are present. Habitat and distribution: Coprinellus domesticus occurs worldwide. In North America, it grows on hardwood stumps, logs, and woody debris. Fruiting occurs from May to September in eastern North America, and from November to April along the West Coast of the continent. Uses: While this species is difficult to identify, it has been reported to be edible.
