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Crab brittlegill

Russula xerampelina

A species of Russulas, Also known as Shrimp mushroom

The large, dark red caps of the crab brittlegill can be found popping up from the floors of coniferous forests. Its common name refers to the smell emitted by the mushrooms, which is similar to shellfish and gets stronger as specimens age.

Cap Diameter:

7 - 15 cm

Odor:

Boiled shellfish scent, intensifies with age.

General Info About Crab brittlegill

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Attributes of Crab brittlegill

Cap Diameter

7 - 15 cm

Height

4 - 15 cm

Cap

4 - 30 cm; convex, flat; red to purplish red; sticky when fresh

Cap Shape

Convex, Depressed

Cap Surfaces

Visible lines or stripes

Gills

Decurrent; crowded, close, or nearly distant; white to creamy, yellowish or orangish yellow

Gill Attachment

Attached

Stem

3 - 12 cm long, 1 - 4 cm thick; equal; white; dry, fairly smooth

Stem Shapes

Cylindrical

Stem Surfaces

Smooth

Stem Cross Sections

Hollow or cottony hollow

Flesh

White; discoloring slowly yellowish brown to brownish or brown when sliced

Ring

Ringless

Spore Print Color

Creamy, yellowish, orangish yellow, ochre

Odor

Boiled shellfish scent, intensifies with age.

Body Color

Red

Purple

Pink

Flesh Bruises

Discolor to brown

Growth Form

Solitary, Scattered

Nutrient Gathering

Mycorrhizal

Substrate

On soil, Leaf or Needle Litter

You can find Crab brittlegill by these plants:

Common douglas-fir, Blue spruce, Pines, Spruces, Norway spruce

Occurence Habitats

Coniferous Woodland, Mixed Woodland

Species Status

Widely distributed in North America

Endangered Species

How to Identify Crab brittlegill

Fruiting Body Cap Gills

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Habitat of Crab brittlegill

The crab brittlegill is commonly found in coniferous forests. It is closely associated with the Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii). It is always found near the roots of conifers, where it exists in a symbiotic relationship in which the two species feed each other essential nutrients.

Uses of Crab brittlegill

Crab brittlegill is a sought-after edible mushroom, particularly appreciated for its nutty flavor when cooked. Its popularity peaks during its fall fruiting season. Chefs and foragers alike value crab brittlegill for its culinary versatility, often used in gourmet dishes. While crab brittlegill is generally safe to consume, it's vital to ensure proper identification as it can be confused with toxic species. Always consult an expert before consumption to avoid risks.

Scientific Classification of Crab brittlegill

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Russulales

Family

Russulaceae

Genus

Russulas

Similar Species to Crab brittlegill

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Primrose brittlegill

Similar Species

Crab brittlegill

How to Differentiate Between Primrose brittlegill and Crab brittlegill?

Crab brittlegill: Displays a distinct shrimp-like or seafood odor.

Primrose brittlegill: Lacks this distinctive odor.

Gooseberry russula

Similar Species

Crab brittlegill

How to Differentiate Between Gooseberry russula and Crab brittlegill?

Crab brittlegill: Emits a shrimp or seafood-like odor.

Gooseberry russula: Lacks a distinctive smell or has a mild fruity odor.

Creamy russula

Similar Species

Crab brittlegill

How to Differentiate Between Creamy russula and Crab brittlegill?

Crab brittlegill: Usually has a stem with a pink blush.

Creamy russula: Possesses a white stem.

Tips for Finding Crab brittlegill

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When is the Best Time to Find Crab brittlegill

Search for crab brittlegill in late summer to early autumn, ideally after rainfall. They thrive when the days are still warm but the nights start to cool down.

What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Crab brittlegill

Prefers duff, the layer of decomposing plant material.

What are Some Tips for Finding Crab brittlegill

Seek out areas with conifer trees, such as Douglas firs, as crab brittlegill commonly resides in their vicinity.
Inspect the duff layer beneath conifers, as crab brittlegill often emerges from this decomposing plant material.
Search in areas with mixed coniferous forests where the ground is typically covered with needle litter.
Investigate gentle slopes within coastal, foothill, and montane regions that accommodate conifer species.
Look for locations where the forest floor is littered with pine needles and other conifer debris, as this environment is favorable for crab brittlegill.

How to Clean and Preserve Crab brittlegill

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How to Clean Crab brittlegill

To clean crab brittlegill, brush off any soil or debris gently with a soft brush. If needed, wipe with a slightly damp cloth but do not soak or wash, as crab brittlegill absorb water readily, which can affect their texture.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Crab brittlegill

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying

Drying Duration

6 - 12 months

Store in a cool, dark, dry place with good ventilation to prevent moisture buildup.

Dehydrator drying: Efficient moisture removal, consistent temperature, prevents spoilage.

Oven drying: Low temperature setting minimizes water content while preserving texture.

Air drying: Natural process, adequate air flow reduces moisture, though slower.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of Crab brittlegill

Freezing Methods

Blanching Before Freezing

Freezing Duration

10 - 12 months

Blanching before freezing: Inactivates enzymes, preserving quality.

Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Crab brittlegill

Refrigerating Methods

Paper Bag Storage, Perforated Plastic Bag Storage, Container with Absorbent Lining

Temperature

2 - 4 ℃

Refrigerating Humidity

90 - 95 %

Refrigerating Duration

5 - 7 days

Paper Bag Storage: Allows air circulation, reducing moisture buildup that leads to spoilage.

Perforated Plastic Bag Storage: Small holes in plastic bags permit air flow while retaining some moisture.

Container with Absorbent Lining: Layering with paper towels absorbs excess moisture, keeping them dry.

Common Questions People Also Ask

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