Cystodermella granulosa

Morphological Features:

Pileus of similar size to other Cystoderma species, about 5 cm in diameter when mature, initially convex, later flattened with a more or less pronounced umbo. Its color is somewhat variable, sometimes brownish-ochre, at other times a matte reddish hue with ochraceous tints. In all cases, the surface is adorned with well-defined, distinct granules resembling warts. The margin is generally lacerate, with these fringes being lighter in color than the rest of the pileus.

Lamellae adnate and rather crowded, white in color, occasionally tinged with pale reddish hues, somewhat thick, and interspersed with lamellulae.

Stipe generally slightly longer than the diameter of the pileus, bearing a cottony-textured ring that is fugacious. Above this ring it is lighter in color, while below it is covered with brownish-reddish scales.

Flesh somewhat soft, white in color, with a mild taste and odor.

Habitat:

Fruiting in coniferous forests and also under various broadleaf trees. It is an autumnal species that should be considered rare and infrequent.

Observations:

When one has the opportunity to examine all Cystoderma species simultaneously, which occurs on very rare occasions, they can be distinguished with the naked eye; however, when assessing a single specimen in isolation, identification is more challenging. This particular species can be confused with Cystoderma cinnabarinum=Cystoderma terrei, which exhibits a cinnabar-red coloration and a less scaly stipe, as well as with Cystoderma fallax, characterized by a membranous and persistent ring.