Coprinopsis lotinae

Morphological Features:

Pileus initially ovoid at emergence, but soon becoming campanulate and then conical, without expanding or flattening out. Quite small, measuring no more than 2 cm in height by 1 to 1.5 cm in width at the base at best, white for much of its development, tending toward light gray tones at maturity. Cuticle entirely covered in younger specimens by a type of concolorous veil that tends to disappear with maturity and rain. Margin striate, covering almost the entire surface except for the central disc.

Lamellae adnate and not too crowded, ascending due to the pileus morphology, initially white but quickly turning gray; sometimes specimens may dry out and remain gray or otherwise become blackish. Lamellar edge remaining white longer than the rest and slightly crenulate.

Stipe notably elongated relative to the pileus, can exceed 5 cm in length, white like the pileus and similarly covered with floccose veil remnants that tend to disappear over time, cylindrical but rarely straight, showing a marked tendency to be sinuous, with a slightly thickened base.

Flesh practically nonexistent; notably only slightly deliquescent, contrary to what is typical for its genus. Lacks any appreciable odor or noteworthy taste.

Habitat:

This is a saprotrophic species without a specific preferred habitat. The first collection of this species was made on fruits of Eucalyptus globulus, but subsequent collections exist in different habitats, on humus and leaves; in our case, on mixed leaves of Quercus and Salix sp. The species was first referenced in 1998.

Observations:

Species characterized by its appearance, which is close to species of the genus Psathyrella, its predominantly white color throughout the basidiome, the practical absence of deliquescence, and the floccose veil covering young specimens. Its etymology is a dedication to the renowned mycology master Roberto Lotina Benguria, whom the author, Rafael Picón, wished to honor. Regarding similar species, we highlight Coprinopsis nivea for its color and covering, although it is more coprophilous, or Coprinopsis marcescibilis in its variety virginea, which is very similar but differs microscopically.