Mycenaceae

Mycenaceae is a family of fungi in the order Agaricales (gilled mushrooms). Characterized by small to medium-sized, often fragile mushrooms with a conic or bell-shaped cap, a thin stipe, and typically a white spore print. Many species are saprobic, decomposing organic matter in forests and woodlands. Some are bioluminescent.

Key characteristics of Mycenaceae include:

• Habit: Primarily saprophytic, growing on decaying wood, leaf litter, or other organic debris.

• Cap: Often conical, campanulate (bell-shaped), or convex, and may be hygrophanous (changing color with moisture). The surface can be smooth, striate, or wrinkled.

• Gills: Typically adnate or adnexed, and may be free in some species. Gill spacing varies.

• Stipe: Usually thin and fragile, often translucent, and may be smooth, pubescent, or have a basal disc.

• Spores: Typically amyloid (reacting with iodine) and smooth. Spore shape varies, often elliptical or teardrop-shaped.

• Microscopic Features: Microscopic examination is often necessary for definitive identification within the family, looking at features such as cheilocystidia, pleurocystidia, and basidia.

Genera within the Mycenaceae family include, but are not limited to, Mycena, Hemimycena, Panellus, and Resinomycena. The exact circumscription and classification of genera within Mycenaceae have been subject to revision based on molecular phylogenetic studies.

Identification of species within Mycenaceae can be challenging due to their small size and subtle morphological differences. Careful observation of macroscopic features, combined with microscopic examination of spores and other structures, is often required.

Some species of Mycenaceae are known for their bioluminescence, emitting a soft glow in the dark. This phenomenon is attributed to a chemical reaction involving luciferins and luciferases.