Agaricus bisporus

Agaricus bisporus
Image Courtesy of Dan Guravich
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Group of Fungi: Agarics

Family: Agaricaceae

Latin Name: Agaricus bisporus (J.E. Lange) Imbach 1946

Common Name: Meadow Mushroom or Pink Bottom

Description: Total height 1 5/8–2 1/2 in (4–6.5 cm); cap 1–4 in (2.5–10 cm) wide, white at first but becoming light brown, upper surface smooth; gills closely spaced, bright pink when young (a feature that accounts for one of the common names of this fungus) but becoming chocolate brown in age; stalk 1–2 in (2.5–5 cm) long, 3/8–5/8 in (1–1.5 cm) in diameter, white; membranous but often indistinct annulus present near top of stalk, white; spores chocolate brown in mass.

Biological Role: Decomposer of litter and humus.

Habitat: On the ground in old fields, lawns and other grassy areas; usually occurring in groups and sometimes forming fairy rings.

Geographical Distribution: Found throughout North America.

Comments: This fungus is very similar in appearance to Agaricus bisporus, the "commercial mushroom" that is sold in most supermarkets. It is considered a choice edible and is probably collected for human consumption more than any other "wild" fungus.



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