Arachnion

Arachnion refers to a genus of fungi belonging to the family Agaricaceae. These fungi are characterized by their unique, enclosed fruiting bodies, known as gasteroid fungi, meaning their spores are produced internally. The fruiting body of an Arachnion species is typically globose or irregularly shaped and remains closed even at maturity.

The internal gleba (spore-bearing mass) of an Arachnion fungus often has a web-like or spider-web-like (arachnoid) appearance, which is the origin of the genus name, derived from the Greek word "arachne" meaning spider. As the fungus matures, the gleba may dry and become powdery. The spores are then released through a rupture or degradation of the outer peridium (outer wall) of the fruiting body.

Arachnion species are typically found growing on soil in grasslands, pastures, or open woodlands. They are saprophytic, meaning they obtain nutrients from decaying organic matter. The exact number of species within the genus Arachnion is debated, and the taxonomic classification can be complex due to morphological similarities with other gasteroid fungi. Distinguishing features often rely on microscopic examination of the spores and gleba structure.

The ecological role of Arachnion fungi is primarily as decomposers, contributing to the nutrient cycle in their respective ecosystems. Their edibility is generally unknown or considered to be of little culinary interest, and they are not typically sought after for consumption.