Agaricus bernardii

Agaricus bernardii is a species of mushroom belonging to the genus Agaricus, within the family Agaricaceae. This mushroom is primarily found in coastal dunes and saline environments, making it a notable species for its salt tolerance. It is commonly known as the salt-loving agaric, reflecting its unique habitat preferences.

Description

Agaricus bernardii features a cap that can range from 5 to 15 cm in diameter, initially convex before flattening out with age. The cap surface is often white to cream, with a smooth texture that can become cracked in dry conditions. The gills are free from the stem, starting as pink before maturing to a dark brown as the spores develop. The stem of the mushroom is sturdy, with a ring that remains as a distinctive feature from its veil. This species produces a chocolate-brown spore print, a characteristic trait within the Agaricus genus.

Habitat and Distribution

This mushroom is predominantly found in coastal regions, particularly in areas with sandy soils that are rich in salts. Its distribution includes various parts of Europe, especially along the Atlantic coast, and it has been observed in North America in similar coastal habitats. The presence of Agaricus bernardii is often an indicator of saline conditions, which can be useful for ecological studies in coastal environments.

Edibility

While Agaricus bernardii is not considered toxic, its edibility is often questioned due to its habitat in potentially polluted areas, such as coastal regions near urban or industrial activities. As with many wild mushrooms, caution is advised when foraging, and identification should be confirmed by an expert.

Conservation

The conservation status of Agaricus bernardii is not well-documented, but like many fungi, it could be susceptible to habitat loss and environmental changes, especially those affecting coastal ecosystems. Conservation efforts for coastal habitats indirectly support the preservation of this species and its ecological niche.

See Also

• Agaricus
• Mushroom hunting
• Mycology