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Stinking brittlegill

Russula foetens

A species of Russulas, Also known as Fetid russula

The stinking brittlegill (Russula foetens) is a globally-distributed species with a smell that lives up to its name - "stinking russulas," especially as they age, emit a pungent, fishy odor. In appearance, the species has a typical russula form, having a thick, sturdy stalk and bearing a navel-like indentation at the center of the cap.

Cap Diameter:

5 - 12 cm

Odor:

Rancid oily scent evolving to rotting fish.

General Info About Stinking brittlegill

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Attributes of Stinking brittlegill

Cap Diameter

5 - 12 cm

Height

4 - 8 cm

Cap

Cap 4 cm across; hemispherical, convex; honey yellow to ochre brown

Cap Shape

Convex, Flat, Depressed

Cap Surfaces

Slimy or slightly sticky, Visible lines or stripes, Warted

Gills

Adnexed; moderately close; pale cream

Gill Attachment

Attached

Stem

Stem 4 - 8 cm long, 1.5 - 4 cm thick; white, brownish; brittle

Stem Shapes

Cylindrical

Stem Surfaces

Smooth

Stem Cross Sections

Hollow or cottony hollow

Flesh

Thin; rather fragile; dingy white, yellowish

Ring

Ringless

Spore Print Color

Pale to mid cream

Odor

Rancid oily scent evolving to rotting fish.

Body Color

Brown

Yellow

White

Flesh Bruises

Discolor to brown

Growth Form

Gregarious

Nutrient Gathering

Mycorrhizal

Substrate

On soil

You can find Stinking brittlegill by these plants:

Oaks, Spruces

Occurence Habitats

Coniferous Woodland, Deciduous Woodland

Species Status

Fairly common

Endangered Species

How to Identify Stinking brittlegill

Fruiting Body Cap Gills

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Habitat of Stinking brittlegill

Stinking brittlegill occurs in mixed forests, and is primarily associated with oak and tanbark-oak (Notholithocarpus densiflorus). It is always found near the roots of trees, where it exists in a symbiotic relationship in which the two species feed each other essential nutrients.

Scientific Classification of Stinking brittlegill

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Russulales

Family

Russulaceae

Genus

Russulas

Toxicity and Edibility of Stinking brittlegill

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Is Stinking brittlegill Toxic?

Stinking brittlegill is prevalent in deciduous forests during late summer and autumn. It possesses gastrointestinal toxins, causing minor digestive upsets in the human stomach and intestines upon consumption. Notable morphological characteristics include its strong odor and brittleness, distinguishing it from non-toxic counterparts.

Type of poisoning

Gastrointestinal

Toxic Severity

Low toxicity

Incubation Period

0.5-4 hours

Poisoning Symptoms

Experience of minor digestive upset in the stomach and intestines.

Similar Species to Stinking brittlegill

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Tips for Finding Stinking brittlegill

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What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Stinking brittlegill

Stinking brittlegill thrive in moist, well-drained soil.

What are Some Tips for Finding Stinking brittlegill

Search under both coniferous and broad-leaf trees, especially where the ground is shaded.
Look for areas where the mushrooms may grow in groups rather than individually.
Check for moist soil that is well-drained but not waterlogged.
Move slowly and carefully examine the ground vegetation for any signs of mushroom growth.
Repeatedly visit potential habitat areas, as stinking brittlegill may not be immediately visible.