''Parasola plicatilis'' is a small saprotrophic mushroom with a plicate cap (diameter up to 35 mm). It is a widely distributed species in Europe and North America. This ink cap species is a decomposer which can be found in grassy areas, alone, scattered or in small groups.
The fruiting bodies grow at night after rain, and will self decompose after
spore
In biology, a spore is a unit of sexual or asexual reproduction that may be adapted for dispersal and for survival, often for extended periods of time, in unfavourable conditions. Spores form part of the life cycles of many plants, algae, ...
dispersion is achieved. Otherwise, they are quickly dried up in morning sunlight, or will eventually collapse beneath the weight of their caps.
Though nonpoisonous,
the species is inedible.
The overall body resembles a
cocktail umbrella. The cap is papery, and the species has no
veil
A veil is an article of clothing or hanging cloth that is intended to cover some part of the head or face, or an object of some significance. Veiling has a long history in European, Asian, and African societies. The practice has been prominent ...
.
Two similar species, ''P. hemerobia'' and ''P. leiocephala'', have similar microscopic features but appear in different habitats and have unique spores.
References
External links
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Psathyrellaceae
Fungi of Europe
Fungi of North America
Fungi described in 1838
{{Psathyrellaceae-stub