Top 20 Most Common Mushrooms in Panama
Boasting of an incredibly diverse climate ranging from tropical rainforest to highland cloud forests, Panama offers the perfect conditions for a rich variety of mushroom species to thrive. In Panama, mushroom diversity is fueled by unique factors like climate variance, fertile soil, and the interplay of abundant local flora and fauna. Delve into the list as we uncover the top 20 most common mushrooms in Panama, showcasing the fascinating species that make up an integral part of Panama's thriving ecosystems.
Most Common Mushrooms
1. Cookeina speciosa
Cookeina speciosa is a hose mushroom from the family of the cupbearer relatives.
2. Cookeina tricholoma
Cookeina tricholoma is a hose mushroom from the family of the Kelchbecherlingsverwandten.
3. Fairy inkcap
The mushrooms of the fairy inkcap species have a tendency to congregate in large masses over dead tree stumps and decaying roots. They appear all around the world from early spring all the way to the first frosts, but each fruit only lasts a few days before turning black and distributing its spores.
4. False parasol
Though the false parasol appears unassuming, the species is famous—or, infamous—for its toxicity. It looks unfortunately similar to Agericus campestrus, a commonly eaten mushroom, but the false parasol can be distinguished by its highly unusual green spore print. Although they are no good to eat, they can be pretty to look at. The species may grow in ring-shaped groups in meadows and on forest floors in what are sometimes called "fairy circles."
5. Bridal veil stinkhorn
Bridal veil stinkhorn (Phallus indusiatus) can be found rising up from the ground in tropical forests around the world. A distinctive netted fringe “skirt” descends from the cap along the length of the stalk. A type of “stinkhorn,” the fruitbodies of this species produce scents that vary between sickly-sweet to just plain unpleasant. The odor is meant to attract insects that usually lay their eggs in carrion.
6. Fringed sawgill
The odd shape cap of the fringed sawgill can be spotted from afar by its fuzzy, almost wig-like appearance. The cap is predominately dark tan towards the concave center but fades to a crisp white along the edges and gills. Size ranges from thumb-sized to dinner plate size.
7. Hairy hexagonia
The hairy hexagonia (Hexagonia hydnoides) is not the most common mushroom you'll find, but has very distinctive qualities. Stiff, dark brown, bristle-like hairs emerge from an ochre flat cap and are found growing from a decaying tree stump or wood. The large pores on the cap's underside create an almost sponge-like appearance, and the stem is otherwise not visible.
8. Split gill
Split gill(Schizophyllum commune) can be found across the globe. Uniquely, it is the only mushroom species known to display the capability to retract by movement. It is considered inedible, although not necessarily toxic. Furthermore, it is not recommended to smell this species, as the spores are capable of sprouting and growing in nasal passages.
9. Oudemansiella canarii
The oudemansiella canarii mushroom plays an important role in digesting and recycling tough decaying tree matter. Oudemansiella canarii is also under scientific investigation in China for many uses such as a potential method for quickly composting the detritus from plants used to create biogas.
10. Tropical white polypore
Tropical white polypore(Favolus tenuiculus) can be most often found on pieces of decaying wood, particularly in areas replete with moisture. Until recently it was a member of the genus Polyporus, which has since been subdivided. Named for its evocative appearance, the species is a favorite food of local insect species.
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