Gyrodon

Gyrodon is a genus of ectomycorrhizal fungi within the Boletaceae family. Characterized by its decurrent or arcuate-decurrent gills, a feature uncommon among boletes which more typically possess pores, Gyrodon species form symbiotic relationships with various deciduous trees, primarily alder (Alnus). The genus is distributed across the Northern Hemisphere.

Description:

• Cap: The cap typically ranges in color from yellowish-brown to ochre, and is often viscid when moist. The shape is usually convex, flattening out with age.
• Pores/Gills: Rather than the porous hymenophore common to most boletes, Gyrodon possesses gills. These gills are decurrent or arcuate-decurrent, meaning they run down the stipe (stem). The gills are typically yellowish in color and may bruise or stain brownish when handled.
• Stipe: The stipe is generally central and cylindrical, though it can sometimes be eccentric. It is usually similar in color to the cap or slightly paler.
• Flesh: The flesh is often whitish to yellowish, and may stain bluish or greenish when cut or bruised in some species.
• Spores: Spore prints are typically yellowish-brown. The spores are smooth and elliptical.

Ecology and Distribution:

• Gyrodon species are ectomycorrhizal, meaning they form a symbiotic relationship with the roots of trees. In this relationship, the fungus provides the tree with water and nutrients, while the tree provides the fungus with carbohydrates.
• Gyrodon is commonly found in association with alder (Alnus) trees, often in damp or wet areas.
• The genus has a Northern Hemisphere distribution, occurring in Europe, North America, and Asia.

Taxonomy:

• Gyrodon belongs to the family Boletaceae.
• Historically, the classification of Gyrodon has been subject to revisions based on morphological and molecular data.

Edibility:

• Edibility varies among Gyrodon species, and some may cause gastrointestinal upset in some individuals. Proper identification is crucial before consumption. It's advisable to treat any Gyrodon species as potentially inedible unless positive identification and edibility are confirmed with a mycological expert or reliable field guide.

Distinguishing Features:

• The presence of gills (instead of pores) distinguishes Gyrodon from most other boletes.
• The association with alder (Alnus) is another helpful identification characteristic.

Caution: Mushroom identification should only be performed by experienced individuals with thorough knowledge of mycology. Misidentification can lead to consumption of poisonous mushrooms, resulting in serious illness or death.