A

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133 entries

AcetabulariaGenus of cup Ascomycetes with concave apothecia, saprophytic on wood and soil

AcervulusCushion-shaped asexual reproductive structure under the epidermis of the host plant

Ibotenic acidNeurotoxin from Amanita muscaria, precursor of muscimol, glutamate agonist

Oxalic acidProduced by brown rot fungi to degrade cellulose by lowering pH

Pulvinic acidYellow pigment of Boletales causing blueing upon oxidation

AcremoniumGenus of saprophytic fungi, some producers of cephalosporin antibiotics

ActinomycetesFilamentous soil bacteria similar to fungi; co-decompose organic matter

Adnate (gills)Gills attached to the stem for their entire width without extending down

AeciumCup-shaped structure of rusts containing aeciospores on the alternate host

Aphid-fungus (relationship)Interaction between aphids producing honeydew and sooty mold saprophytes

AflatoxinCarcinogenic mycotoxin from Aspergillus flavus on cereals, peanuts, and dried fruit

PDA AgarPotato Dextrose Agar; standard medium for mycelial isolation and growth

MEA AgarMalt Extract Agar; nutrient medium for culturing molds and macrofungi

SDA AgarSabouraud Dextrose Agar; selective acidic pH medium for dermatophytes and yeasts

WA AgarWater Agar; low-nutrient medium used to isolate single spores and germinate basidiospores

Agar-agarGelling agent from algae for solidifying culture media in microbiology

AgaricalesOrder of Basidiomycetes containing most gilled fungi

AgaricGeneric term for a fungus having a cap, stem, and gills

Agaricus arvensisHorse mushroom; good edible with aniseed odor from meadows

Agaricus augustusThe Prince; large fungus with brown scales and almond fragrance

Agaricus bisporusButton mushroom; the most cultivated fungus worldwide in three commercial varieties

Agaricus bitorquisPavement mushroom; robust edible with a double ring

Agaricus campestrisField mushroom; edible from pastures with pink then brown gills

Agaricus silvicolaWood mushroom; edible with white cap and aniseed odor

Agaricus xanthodermusYellow-staining mushroom; toxic, turning yellow at the base with phenol odor

AgarikonLaricifomes officinalis; large medicinal polypore of conifers

Agrocybe aegeritaPoplar mushroom; excellent edible cultivated on hardwood stumps

Agrocybe praecoxSmall spring fungus from gardens with a membranous ring

Mother treeDominant forest tree that distributes nutrients via the mycorrhizal network

Aleuria aurantiaOrange peel fungus; edible bright orange cup Ascomycete

AleuriosporesLarge terminal conidia on the hyphae of dermatophytes

Alpha-amanitinMain amatoxin; inhibits RNA polymerase II, lethal to the liver

AlternariaGenus of allergenic dark molds causing leaf spots and contamination

AmadouFibrous material from Fomes fomentarius used as tinder and for hemostatic purposes

Amanita caesareaCaesar's mushroom; prized orange edible with yellow gills and white volva

Amanita citrinaFalse death cap; inedible with raw potato odor

Amanita croceaOrange Grisette; edible without ring, with white membranous volva

Amanita fulvaTawny Grisette; edible with tawny-brown cap and sheathing volva

Amanita gemmataJeweled Amanita; toxic with yellow cap and deciduous white warts

Amanita muscariaFly agaric; iconic red with white spots, toxic-hallucinogenic

Amanita pantherinaPanther cap; highly toxic with brown cap and white warts

Amanita phalloidesDeath cap; most lethal fungus in Europe, causing 90% of deaths

Amanita ponderosaPonderous Amanita; prized Iberian edible from Mediterranean sandy soils

Amanita rubescensBlusher; edible after long cooking, flesh turns red

Amanita strobiliformisStrobiliform Amanita; large whitish fungus with pyramidal warts

Amanita vaginataGrisette; edible but fragile with grey cap and volva

Amanita vernaFool's mushroom; lethal spring fungus, entirely white

Amanita virosaDestroying angel; deadly with white conical cap and membranous volva

AmatoxinsLethal cyclopeptides in Amanita, Galerina, and Lepiota; destroy the liver

Ambrosia (fungi)Fungi cultivated by bark beetles in wood galleries

Amyloid (reaction)Blue-black staining with Melzer's reagent indicating starch in spores

Amorpha (Fomitopsis)Genus of brown rot polypores, parasitic and saprophytic on wood

AnamorphAsexual stage of the fungal life cycle that produces conidia

Hyphal anastomosisFusion between compatible hyphae for exchange of nuclei and cytoplasm

AnnulusRemnant of the partial veil around the stem; ring in gilled fungi

Double ringRing formed by two layers, typical of Agaricus bitorquis and Macrolepiota

Movable ringMobile ring that can slide along the stem, typical of Macrolepiota procera

AnnulusLatin term for ring; used in formal taxonomic descriptions

Fungal antibiosisProduction of antibiotics by fungi that inhibit bacteria and other microorganisms

AntifungalDrug that kills or inhibits pathogenic fungi; classes: azoles, polyenes, echinocandins

Hyphal apexTerminal growth zone of the hypha where cell wall extension occurs

ApotheciumOpen, cup-shaped fruiting body of Ascomycetes with exposed hymenium

AppressoriumAdhesion and penetration structure of phytopathogenic fungi on the cuticle

ArbusculeBranched structure within root cells, site of exchange in AM mycorrhizae

Armillaria borealisNorthern honey fungus; northern species of the Armillaria complex with yellowish ring

Armillaria gallicaBulbous honey fungus; species with bulbous stem and yellow reaction at base

Armillaria melleaHoney fungus; edible only when cooked, parasite with bioluminescent rhizomorphs

Armillaria ostoyaeIncludes the largest living organism on Earth: 9 km² of mycelium in Oregon

ArthrosporeAsexual spore formed by hyphal fragmentation, common in dermatophytes and Geotrichum

AscusSac-like cell of Ascomycetes where 8 ascospores are formed by meiosis

AscocarpFruiting body of Ascomycetes; can be apothecium, perithecium, or cleistothecium

AscogoniumFemale cell of Ascomycetes which, after fertilization, gives rise to asci

AscomycetesDivision Ascomycota; truffles, morels, yeasts, molds, lichens — spores in asci

AscosporeSexual spore produced inside an ascus; typically 8 per ascus

AspergillosisInfection by Aspergillus, especially pulmonary, severe in immunocompromised

Aspergillus flavusMold producing carcinogenic aflatoxins on cereals and dried fruit

Aspergillus fumigatusMain agent of invasive aspergillosis; ubiquitous airborne spores

Aspergillus nigerIndustrial black mold for citric acid and enzymes; occasionally pathogenic

Aspergillus oryzaeKoji; sacred mold for sake, miso, and soy sauce in Japanese cuisine

AutoclaveSteam sterilizer under pressure (121°C) for cultivation substrates

AutolysisSelf-digestion of the fruiting body by its own enzymes; typical of Coprinopsis

Auricularia auricula-judaeJelly ear; edible gelatinous fungus shaped like an ear

Auricularia polytrichaCloud ear; similar to the previous, larger, cultivated in Asia

Carbon austerityTechnique of increasing CO₂ to delay and synchronize fruiting

AuxotrophyInability of an organism to synthesize an essential nutrient; common in mutant yeasts

AbiosisDeath of hyphae due to substrate exhaustion or prolonged adverse conditions

Acacia (mycorrhizae)Tropical acacias form arbuscular mycorrhizae and sometimes ectomycorrhizae with Boletus

AcervularRelating to the acervulus; a type of subepidermal conidial fruiting

Clavulanic acidBeta-lactamase inhibitor produced by the fungus Streptomyces clavuligerus

Fusaric acidPhytotoxin produced by Fusarium causing wilting in plants

Gibberellic acidPlant hormone originally isolated from the rice fungus Gibberella fujikuroi

Mycophenolic acidImmunosuppressant from Penicillium brevicompactum used in organ transplants

Usnic acidLichen metabolite with antibiotic and anti-inflammatory properties

AdaptogenSubstance that helps the body adapt to stress; attributed to reishi and cordyceps

AerobiologyStudy of airborne biological particles including fungal spores and hyphal fragments

Aflatoxin M1Metabolite of aflatoxin B1 in milk from animals fed contaminated feed

AgaritineCompound in Agaricus bisporus studied for potential genotoxicity at high doses

Leavening agentMicroorganism (yeast) or substance that produces gas to leaven dough

CYA AgarCzapek Yeast Agar; medium for growth and identification of Aspergillus species

AlbatrellusGenus of terrestrial polypores; A. pes-caprae is edible and sought after

Fermentation alchemyAncient term for fermentation processes carried out by yeasts and molds

Carbon allocationDistribution of photosynthetic sugars from the plant to the mycorrhizal fungus

Alternation of generationsLife cycle with haploid and diploid phases; in fungi includes plasmogamy, karyogamy, and meiosis

Amanita ceciliaeCecilia's Amanita; edible with grey-brown cap and greyish warts

Amanita echinocephalaSpiny-headed Amanita; toxic with pointed pyramidal warts

Amanita junquilleaJungle Amanita; suspiciously toxic with cream-yellow cap

Amanita ovoideaBeige Amanita; Mediterranean edible with farinaceous flesh

Amanita spissaRobust Amanita; edible with caution, confusable with the toxic panther cap

AmensalismInteraction where one organism inhibits another without direct benefit

Spore amyloidyPresence of starch in spores detected by the amyloid reaction with Melzer

Amoeba-fungusInteraction between soil amoebae and fungal spores; amoebae prey on conidia

Amylostereum areolatumSymbiotic fungus of the woodwasp Sirex noctilio; causes conifer rot

Facultative anaerobeOrganism that grows with or without oxygen; yeasts ferment in anaerobiosis

AneuploidyAbnormal number of chromosomes in fungal cells; studied in mutant yeasts

AnisaldehydeReagent used to highlight terpenes and sugars in fungal histological sections

BlackeningFlesh turning black in certain Boletus and Leccinum due to enzymatic oxidation

AntagonismReciprocal inhibition between fungi competing for the same substrate or habitat

AntibioticAntimicrobial substance of fungal or bacterial origin; penicillin, griseofulvin

Fungal antioxidantPhenolic compounds and polysaccharides from fungi that neutralize free radicals

Apical (growth)Hyphal extension occurring exclusively at the tip, via wall deposition

ApiocystidiaCystidia with a swollen, pear-shaped apex; diagnostic microscopic feature

Hilar appendageSmall protuberance on the spore at the attachment point to the sterigma

Armillaria tabescensRingless honey fungus; edible, similar to A. mellea but lacking a ring

AscolichensAscomycetes that form the fungal component of lichens; the majority

AseptateHypha or spore lacking cross walls; synonymous with coenocytic

AspergillomaMass of Aspergillus hyphae in a lung cavity; complication of aspergillosis

AsterophoraGenus of small fungi parasitic on decomposing Russula and Lactarius

AsterosporesRough or warty spores of Asterosporales; diagnostic ornamentation

Mycelial atrophyProgressive loss of mycelial vigor in repeated subcultures

AureobasidiumGenus of black yeast-like fungi used for industrial pullulan production

Self-digestionSynonym for autolysis; the fungus digests itself at maturity

AutotrophyAbility to synthesize all nutrients independently; absent in fungi (obligate heterotrophs)

AzurescentTurning blue/azure; diagnostic behavior of certain Boletus and Psilocybe

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B

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54 entries

Spore ballistosporyLaunch mechanism of basidiospores via the Buller's drop

Bale (substrate)Compressed substrate blocks for cultivating Pleurotus and Lentinula

DNA BarcodingIdentification of fungal species by sequencing ITS regions of ribosomal DNA

BasidiumClub-shaped fertile cell of Basidiomycetes on which basidiospores are formed

BasidiocarpFruiting body of Basidiomycetes; includes cap, stem, and hymenium

BasidiomycetesDivision Basidiomycota; gilled fungi, polypores, rusts, smuts, jelly fungi

BasidiosporeSexual spore on a basidium; typically 4 per basidium, actively launched

Beauveria bassianaEntomopathogenic fungus used as a biological insecticide against harmful arthropods

Beta-glucansImmunomodulating polysaccharides of the fungal cell wall; abundant in reishi and shiitake

BioaccumulationConcentration of heavy metals and radionuclides in fungal tissues from the soil

BiofuelsUse of fungal lignocellulosic enzymes to convert biomass into ethanol

BiocontrolUse of antagonistic fungi (Trichoderma, Beauveria) to control pathogens and pests

BiodeteriorationDegradation of man-made materials (wood, paper, fabrics) caused by fungal enzymes

BiofertilizerInoculum of mycorrhizal fungi added to soil to improve plant nutrition

BioluminescenceLight emission from fungi (Omphalotus, Mycena) via luciferin-luciferase reaction

Fungal biomassTotal amount of living fungal matter in an ecosystem; dominates soil biomass

BioreactorContainer for fungal cultivation under controlled conditions of temperature, pH, and aeration

BioremediationUse of fungi to degrade environmental pollutants using ligninolytic enzymes

BisporaBasidium producing only 2 spores instead of 4; characteristic of Agaricus bisporus

BlastomycosisSystemic infection by Blastomyces dermatitidis, a dimorphic soil fungus

BlastosporeAsexual spore produced by budding in yeasts (Candida, Saccharomyces)

BoletalesOrder of Basidiomycetes with tubes and pores; porcini, leccinum, suillus

Boletus aereusDark porcini; highly prized with brownish-black cap, thermophilic mycorrhizal

Boletus edulisPorcini; king of edible mushrooms with brown cap and reticulate stem

Boletus pinophilusPine porcini; excellent with reddish-brown cap of mountain conifers

Boletus reticulatusSummer porcini; similar to B. edulis but earlier and with dry cap

Botrytis cinereaGrey mold; phytopathogen that on ripe grapes produces noble rot

Brown rotDegradation of cellulose leaving lignin intact

BrûléCircular zone without vegetation around a truffle-producing tree, sign of truffle presence

Bucket tekAmateur technique for pasteurizing substrate in a bucket with hot water

Buller's dropDrop forming on the basidiospore causing its explosive launch from the basidium

Bulliard, Jean-Baptiste18th-century French mycologist, author of fundamental illustrated plates for mycology

BaeomycesGenus of crustose lichens with fertile podetia; indicator of acidic soils

BalansiaGenus of Ascomycete endophytes of tropical grasses

BasidiolumImmature basidium; stage before meiosis and spore formation

BasidiomycinAntibiotic substance produced by some Basidiomycetes with antimicrobial activity

BatrachochytriumGenus of Chytrids responsible for lethal chytridiomycosis in amphibians

BenzimidazolesClass of systemic fungicides that inhibit fungal mitosis

Egg white testPopular (unreliable) edibility test using egg white; lacking scientific validity

Fungal biocharCharcoal that promotes mycorrhizal colonization in soil

Fungal biofilmStructured community of fungal cells adhering to surfaces, resistant to treatments

BiomimeticsImitation of fungal structures for design and engineering (e.g., mycelial materials)

BiopulpingUse of white rot fungi to pre-treat wood in the paper industry

Fungal biotaSet of fungal species present in a given territory or ecosystem

Bisporella citrinaSmall yellow disc on dead hardwood; very common Ascomycete

Bluing reactionFlesh turning blue; diagnostic in Psilocybe and some Boletus

BodegoneSpanish term for pictorial representation of still lifes with mushrooms

BolbitiaceaeFamily of fungi with gills ranging from light to brown; includes Bolbitius and Conocybe

Bolbitius titubansEphemeral yellow fungus of lawns with slimy cap that dissolves rapidly

BoletinusGenus of boletes with elongated, irregular pores, mycorrhizal with larch

Mycological remediationRemediation intervention of contaminated soils using degradative fungi

BotryobasidiumGenus of resupinate fungi forming films on decaying wood

BotryosphaeriaGenus of phytopathogenic Ascomycetes causing cankers and dieback on hardwoods

Bulgaria inquinansBlack, gelatinous cup fungus on oak wood; inedible

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C

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133 entries

Calvatia giganteaGiant puffball; edible when young, up to 70 cm, billions of spores

Dried specimen (exsiccatum)Dehydrated fruiting body preserved in a herbarium as a taxonomic reference

Candida albicansCommensal yeast of humans that can cause candidiasis in immunocompromised individuals

CandidiasisInfection by Candida of mucous membranes, skin, or organs; common in immunocompromised

Cantharellus cibariusGolden chanterelle; prized yellow edible with apricot aroma, mycorrhizal

Cantharellus lutescensYellowfoot; edible with yellow hollow stem and brown cap, excellent dried

Cantharellus pallensPale chanterelle; light variety of the chanterelle, equally prized

Cantharellus tubaeformisTrumpet chanterelle; small winter edible with funnel-shaped cap

Cap (pileus)Upper part of the fruiting body that protects the fertile hymenium

Sooty mold complexFungal complex of sooty mold; black coating on leaves due to honeydew

Smuts (Ustilaginales)Parasitic Basidiomycetes that convert host tissues into black spore masses

King oysterPleurotus eryngii; excellent fungus of Mediterranean steppes parasitic on Eryngium

KaryogamyFusion of nuclei in the fungal sexual cycle; precedes meiosis

Flesh (context)Internal tissue of the fruiting body; color, consistency, and bruising are diagnostic

CasingCovering layer (peat + lime) that stimulates fruiting of the button mushroom

CellulaseEnzymes that degrade cellulose into glucose, produced by saprophytic fungi

CoenocyteHypha lacking septa with continuous cytoplasm and multiple nuclei; typical of Zygomycetes

CercosporaPhytopathogenic genus causing leaf spots with elongated, multi-septate conidia

CespiroseGrowth form in tufts of multiple fruiting bodies from a single point (e.g., honey fungi)

ChagaInonotus obliquus; black mass on birches used as an antioxidant in traditional medicine

Button mushroomCommercial name of Agaricus bisporus; most widely cultivated mushroom in the world

Dichotomous keyIdentification tool using successive binary choices based on morphological characters

Honey fungusArmillaria mellea s.l.; edible only when cooked, grows in tufts on tree stumps

ChitinStructural polysaccharide of the fungal cell wall containing nitrogen

ChitinaseEnzymes that degrade chitin; role in competition between fungi and in biocontrol

ChytridiomycetesPrimitive aquatic fungi with flagellated zoospores; Batrachochytrium kills amphibians

CyanescentTurning blue upon tissue breakage due to pigment oxidation (Boletus, Psilocybe)

Heteroecious cycleLife cycle on two different hosts; typical of cereal rusts

Autoecious cycleLife cycle completed on a single host without alternation

CystidiaSterile cells on the hymenium; cheilo-, pleuro-, caulo-cystidia; fundamental for microscopy

CladosporiumGenus of dark molds among the most common fungal allergens in the air

Clathrus archeriOctopus stinkhorn; Basidiomycete with red tentacles and fetid gleba, of Australian origin

Clathrus ruberRed cage fungus; cage-like structure with foul-smelling gleba to attract flies

ClavariaGenus of club or coral-shaped colorful fungi, soil saprophytes

Claviceps purpureaErgot fungus; produces ergot with alkaloids causing ergotism

ClavulinaGenus of white or grey coral fungi; C. cristata is common in woods

CleistotheciumClosed ascocarp that releases ascospores only upon wall disintegration

Clitocybe geotropaFunnel mushroom of meadows; large edible with strong floury odor

Clitocybe nebularisClouded agaric; large grey fungus now considered toxic due to accumulation

Clitocybe rivulosaSmall white meadow fungus, very toxic due to muscarine; confusable

Clitopilus prunulusMiller; edible with floury odor, indicator of porcini

CloneMycelial culture from a tissue fragment to propagate a selected strain

CO₂ (management)Carbon dioxide control: high levels favor colonization, low levels favor fruiting

CoccidioidomycosisLung infection by Coccidioides immitis, a soil fungus from arid American zones

Cold shockSudden temperature drop to induce fruiting in certain species

ColonizationPhase in which the mycelium progressively invades the substrate before fruiting

Coltricia perennisSmall soil polypore with concentrically zoned cap, mycorrhizal

Liquid culturePropagation of mycelium in sterile nutrient solution for rapid inoculation

Master culturePetri dish with the original strain kept as a genetic reserve of the fungus

Slant cultureMycelium on slanted agar in a tube for long-term storage

Phase I compostFirst aerobic fermentation of compost for button mushrooms: straw, manure, gypsum

Phase II compostControlled pasteurization of compost at 60°C to eliminate pathogens

Phase III compostCompost colonized by button mushroom mycelium, ready for casing

ConidiumAsexual spore produced externally on conidiophores; rapid propagation of molds

ConidiophoreSpecialized hypha that bears conidia; morphology diagnostic for mold genera

Clamp connectionLateral hyphal bridge that maintains the dikaryon during cell division

ContaminationPresence of unwanted organisms in the substrate; main problem for the grower

Coprinellus micaceusMica cap; edible when young, with sparkling granules

Coprinopsis atramentariaCommon ink cap; causes coprine syndrome (Antabuse effect) with alcohol

Coprinus comatusShaggy mane; excellent when young, self-digests into black ink

CoprophilousFungus growing on dung; strategy of Panaeolus, Psilocybe, Coprinus

CordycepinAntibacterial and antitumor metabolite from Cordyceps militaris

Cordyceps militarisOrange cultivable entomopathogen, source of cordycepin for mycotherapy

Cordyceps sinensisTibetan caterpillar fungus; parasite of high-altitude larvae, extremely expensive

Fruiting bodyMacroscopic structure that bears the spores; what we commonly call a mushroom

CortinaCobweb-like veil protecting young gills in the genus Cortinarius

CortinariusGenus with >2000 mycorrhizal species; includes edibles and deadly ones

Cortinarius orellanusDeadly due to orellanine; renal failure with late symptoms (2-17 days)

Cortinarius speciosissimusDeadly bog fungus with orellanine like C. orellanus

Cortinarius violaceusViolet cortinarius; rare, entirely dark violet fungus, mycorrhizal

Craterellus cornucopioidesBlack trumpet; excellent black edible, excellent dried

CreminiIntermediate brown variety of Agaricus bisporus with a stronger flavor

CrepidotusGenus of small shelf fungi without a stem, saprophytic on wood

CryptococcosisSystemic infection by Cryptococcus neoformans; meningitis in HIV patients

Cryptococcus neoformansEncapsulated pathogenic yeast living in pigeon guano; causes meningitis

CuticleSurface layer of the cap; the microscopic structure is a taxonomic character

CyclosporineImmunosuppressant produced by Tolypocladium inflatum; revolutionized organ transplants

CaloceraGenus of small, yellow, club-shaped gelatinous fungi on conifer wood

Calocera viscosaYellow stagshorn; branched yellow gelatinous fungus on conifer stumps

Calocybe gambosaSt. George's mushroom; prized spring edible from meadows with floury odor

Heat shieldInsulating material used to maintain temperature in mushroom houses

CalosphaeriaGenus of stromatic Ascomycetes parasitic on the wood of fruit trees

Humid chamberEnvironment with saturated humidity to stimulate sporulation of fungal samples

Candelabra conidiophoreCandelabrum-like branched conidiophore structure; character of genera like Verticillium

Trained dogDog trained to search for truffles; specialized breeds like the Lagotto Romagnolo

Canker (lesion)Necrotic lesion on stems and branches caused by phytopathogenic fungi (Nectria, Cytospora)

CapillitiumNetwork of sterile filaments among spores in Gasteromycetes; aids dispersal

CapreolusGenus of small Ascomycetes parasitic on wild grasses

Stinking smutTilletia caries; wheat smut that contaminates grains with a fetid odor

CarboxymethylcelluloseSubstrate used in laboratory tests to assay the cellulolytic activity of fungi

CarpophoreSynonym for fruiting body and sporophore; the visible structure of the fungus

Vegetable tarSubstance traditionally used to protect inoculated logs from drying out

CaulocystidiaCystidia present on the stem surface; diagnostic microscopic character

CelluloseMain plant polysaccharide; degraded by fungi with cellulosic complexes

CenobiosisLife in community of different organisms; fungi participate in soil cenobiosis

StrainSpecific genetic line of a cultivated fungus; selected for yield and quality

CerrenaGenus of resupinate polypores on dead wood with a labyrinthine surface

Chalciporus piperatusPeppery bolete; inedible raw due to very peppery taste, used as a spice

Fir honey fungusArmillaria borealis or cepistipes; honey fungus of mountain conifers

ChlamsporaSynonym for chlamydospore; thick-walled resistance spore

Chlorophyllum molybditesFalse parasol; toxic tropical species with greenish gills and green spores

Chlorophyllum rachodesShaggy parasol; edible with reddening flesh, smooth stem

CiboriaGenus of small cup Ascomycetes parasitic on catkins and fruits of trees

Sporangiophore cymbalsSporangiophores of the genus Pilobolus that launch the sporangium towards light

Hymenial cystidiumCystidium located specifically on the hymenium among fertile basidia

CladoniaGenus of lichens with erect podetia and cups; C. rangiferina is reindeer lichen

Phylogenetic classificationTaxonomy based on evolutionary relationships reconstructed with DNA analysis

Clavariadelphus pistillarisLarge edible yellow-brown club fungus of mountain beech forests

Clitocybe costataRibbed clitocybe; edible grey funnel fungus from sandy dunes

Clitocybe gibbaCommon funnel; edible funnel-shaped with very crowded decurrent gills

CoenocyticRelating to coenocyte; hyphae without septa with multinucleate cytoplasm

ColletotrichumGenus causing anthracnose; spots and lesions on fruits and leaves

CollybiaObsolete genus of small saprophytic litter fungi; now subdivided

Spore stainReagents (lactophenol cotton blue, congo red) to highlight spores under the microscope

Mycological commissionBody of the local health authority responsible for checking fresh mushrooms intended for sale

CompostingAerobic fermentation process of organic matter; phase I and II for button mushrooms

Fungal communitySet of fungal species coexisting in an ecosystem; studied with metabarcoding

ConfervaArchaic term for fungal hyphae or filamentous algae observed under the microscope

ConocybeGenus of small fragile fungi of manured grasslands; some species with amatoxins

Conocybe filarisSmall deadly garden fungus due to amatoxins; easily overlooked

Ex situ conservationMaintenance of fungal strains in culture (cryopreservation, lyophilization)

In situ conservationProtection of fungi in their natural habitat; mycological reserves

Dimitic contextFruiting body tissue with two types of hyphae (generative + skeletal)

Monomitic contextTissue with only one type of hyphae (generative); simple and soft structure

Trimitic contextTissue with three types of hyphae (generative, skeletal, binding); very hard structure

CoriolusOld synonym for Trametes; still used for Trametes versicolor in mycotherapy

Hyphal wrinklingDeformation of hyphae due to osmotic or environmental stress during cultivation

CryopreservationStorage of fungal strains at -80°C or in liquid nitrogen to preserve viability

ChrysocystidiaCystidia with golden-yellow content in Basidiomycetes; visible under the microscope

ChromogenesisFormation of pigments in the fruiting body; responsible for mushroom colors

Mycelial crustCompact superficial layer of mycelium covering the colonized substrate

CrustoseCrust-like growth adhering to the substrate; typical of many lichens and resupinate fungi

Cure dryingSlow, controlled drying of fruiting bodies for herbal use

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D

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41 entries

DacrymycesGenus of small orange gelatinous fungi on conifer wood

Daedalea quercinaMaze-gill polypore of oak with a labyrinthine pore surface

Daedaleopsis confragosaShelf polypore on hardwoods with pores that redden under pressure

Decurrent (gills)Gills that extend down the stem

DecomposersEcological role of saprophytes: recycle organic matter and feed the soil

Spore dischargeViolent expulsion of ascospores from asci in Ascomycetes

DeliquescenceAutolysis with liquefaction of the fruiting body; gills dissolve into black liquid

DermatophytesKeratinophilic fungi causing ringworm, athlete's foot, and onychomycosis

Dextrinoid (reaction)Brownish-red staining with Melzer; intermediate between amyloid and inamyloid

DeuteromycetesObsolete group of fungi with only asexual stage known; reclassified with DNA

DikaryonCell or hypha with two different haploid nuclei; secondary mycelium of Basidiomycetes

DimorphismAlternation between filamentous and yeast-like form in pathogens (Histoplasma, Blastomyces)

Germ porePoint on the spore from which the germ tube emerges to initiate the mycelium

Anemochorous dispersalSpore dispersal via wind; most common mechanism in fungi

Entomochorous dispersalSpore dispersal via insects attracted by odors (e.g., Phallaceae)

Hydrochorous dispersalSpore dispersal via water; common in Chytridiomycetes

Zoochorous dispersalSpore dispersal via animals (mammals, birds, slugs)

DNA barcodingMolecular technique to identify fungal species using ribosomal ITS regions

DoliporeHyphal septum with a barrel-shaped pore surrounded by the parenthesome in Basidiomycetes

Spore dormancyMetabolic quiescence of spores awaiting favorable conditions

Dowel spawnWooden dowels colonized by mycelium for inoculating logs

Dryad's saddleCerioporus squamosus; large scaly shelf polypore on hardwoods

Daldinia concentricaKing Alfred's cakes; black spherical Ascomycete with concentric rings on ash wood

DaldiniaGenus of globose stromatic Ascomycetes with internal zonation; wood saprophytes

DecarboxylationReaction converting ibotenic acid into muscimol during drying of A. muscaria

Nutritional deficiencyNutrient shortage in the substrate causing weak growth and low yields

Enzymatic degradationProcess of breaking down organic matter by fungal enzymes

DehiscenceSpontaneous opening of the fruiting body or sporangium to release spores

Fungal dermatitisSkin irritation caused by contact with certain toxic fungi (Suillus, Boletus)

DesaturationProcess of reducing free water in the substrate by drainage or evaporation

DeuteromycoticRelating to Deuteromycetes; term describing the anamorph stage of a fungus

ClearingTechnique of clarifying fungal tissues for microscopic observation

DiaportheGenus of endophytic and phytopathogenic Ascomycetes with perithecia on dead plant stems

Dichotomous keyStandard tool for fungal identification

Dimethyl sulfideVolatile compound responsible for the aroma of certain fresh mushrooms

DiscomycetesGroup of Ascomycetes with open disc-shaped apothecia; includes Peziza and Morchella

DisinfectionReduction of microbial load without complete sterilization; alcohol, hypochlorite

Spore dissectionTechnique of isolating single spores with a microneedle to obtain pure cultures

Ribosomal DNAGenes for ribosomal RNAs; ITS and LSU regions are used for fungal taxonomy

Lethal doseMinimum amount of toxin that causes death; 0.1 mg/kg for alpha-amanitin

Droso (slime)Viscous film on the cap cuticle of Suillus, Gomphidius, and similar fungi

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E

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46 entries

EchinulateSpore ornamentation with small spines; visible under the microscope

Fungal ecologyStudy of interactions of fungi with the environment, plants, and other organisms

EctendomycorrhizaHybrid type with an external mantle and intracellular penetration

EctomycorrhizaSymbiosis with a hyphal mantle and Hartig net between root cells

Antabuse effectCoprine syndrome: nausea and tachycardia consuming Coprinopsis with alcohol

ElaphomycetesHypogeous genus of Ascomycetes similar to truffles but not related

EndomycorrhizaSymbiosis with hyphae penetrating root cells; arbuscules and vesicles

EndophyteFungus living inside plant tissues without causing disease, often beneficial

EndosporeSpore formed inside a mother cell; ascospores are endospores

EnokiCultivated form of Flammulina: elongated white stems and small cap

Entoloma sinuatumLarge toxic species with pinkish sporulation; severe gastroenteritis

EntomopathogenFungus parasitic on insects used in biocontrol (Beauveria, Metarhizium)

Ligninolytic enzymesLaccases and peroxidases that degrade lignin in white rot

EpigeousFungus with fruiting body above ground; opposite of hypogeous

EpicutisOutermost layer of the cap cuticle composed of differentiated hyphae

ErgosterolMembrane sterol of fungi; precursor of vitamin D2 under UV, target of antifungals

ErgotSclerotium of Claviceps purpurea on rye; alkaloids of historical ergotism

ErgotismPoisoning by ergot alkaloids; gangrene and convulsions in medieval Europe

Ericaceous (mycorrhiza)Specific symbiosis between Ascomycetes and roots of heathers, blueberries, rhododendrons

DryingPreservation by dehydration; concentrates aromas in porcini and black trumpets

EsteraseFungal enzymes that hydrolyze ester bonds; used in diagnostics and biotechnology

HeterothallismSexual reproduction requiring genetically different and compatible mycelia

ExobasidiumParasitic genus causing galls on azaleas, rhododendrons, and Ericaceae

ExoperidiumOuter layer of the peridium in Gasteromycetes; splits open like a star in Geastrum

EchinocandinsClass of antifungals that inhibit beta-glucan synthesis in the fungal cell wall

Mycological ecoregionGeographical area with characteristic fungal flora determined by climate and vegetation

EctoendomycorrhizaMixed type with external mantle and intracellular penetration, in young conifers

EdaphicRelating to soil; edaphic factors profoundly influence the fungal flora

Pioneer effectRole of primary saprophytes that prepare the substrate for subsequent fungi

Border effectPreferential growth of cultivated fungi at the substrate edges due to microclimate

ElaterHygroscopic structure aiding spore dispersal in Myxomycetes

HemicellulosePlant cell wall polysaccharide degraded by fungi along with cellulose

HemolysisRupture of red blood cells; caused by amatoxin phalloidin and the toxin of Paxillus

EndoperidiumInner layer of the peridium in Gasteromycetes; contains the fertile gleba

EndosymbioticOrganism living inside another; some bacteria live inside fungal hyphae

Mycological wine tastingPaired tasting of mushrooms and wine; Italian food and wine tradition

EpiphyteFungus growing on the surface of living plants without parasitizing them; foliose lichens

EpiphragmFungus pushing through asphalt or concrete; the pavement mushroom

ErinacinesBioactive diterpenes from Hericium erinaceus that cross the blood-brain barrier

ExosporeSpore formed externally to the mother cell; basidiospores are exospores

Exterior of the basidiumExternal surface where basidiospores are formed, distinct from the internal ascus

Ethanol (production)Ethyl alcohol produced by glucose fermentation by Saccharomyces cerevisiae

HeterocystSpecialized cell of lichen cyanobacteria for nitrogen fixation

EthnomycologyStudy of the relationship between human cultures and fungi throughout history and traditions

EurotialesOrder of Ascomycetes comprising Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Talaromyces

EvanescentDisappearing at maturity; evanescent partial veil leaving no visible ring

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F

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54 entries

Fairy ringCircular growth due to radial expansion of the mycelium

Phalloid (syndrome)Amatoxin poisoning with 6-24h latency, liver damage, high mortality

PhalloidinToxin from A. phalloides that binds F-actin, destroying the cell cytoskeleton

FAE (Fresh Air Exchange)Air exchange in the fruiting chamber to lower CO₂

FermentationAnaerobic process of yeasts: sugars → alcohol + CO₂ for wine, beer, and bread

Solid-state fermentationFungal growth on solid substrates; used for enzymes, antibiotics, and foods

Clamp connectionLateral hyphal bridge to maintain the dikaryon

HEPA filter99.97% filter for particles ≥0.3µm; essential for sterility in fungiculture

Fistulina hepaticaBeefsteak fungus; blood-red shelf edible on oaks and chestnuts

PhytopathogenFungus that causes disease in plants; molds, rusts, smuts, tracheomycoses

Flammulina velutipesEnoki/velvet foot; edible with dark stem in nature, white when cultivated

FlocculoseFluffy appearance of the surface due to tufts of easily removable erect hyphae

Flow hoodLaminar flow hood with HEPA filter for aseptic work in the laboratory

FlushingFruiting flush from the substrate; typically 2-4 per cultivation cycle

Fomes fomentariusTinder fungus; hoof-shaped polypore on beeches/birches, prehistoric tinder and amadou

ForagingCollection of wild mushrooms; requires identification skills and knowledge of local regulations

PhototropismOrientation of fruiting body growth towards light

Fruiting chamberEnvironment with controlled humidity, light, and aeration

FruitingPhase in which the mycelium produces fruiting bodies; induced by thermal shock, light, and low CO₂

Sooty moldBlack coating of saprophytic fungi on honeydew from aphids and scale insects

Mushroom houseCultivation site: caves, cellars, climate-controlled greenhouses, industrial sheds

FungicultureScience and practice of cultivating edible and medicinal mushrooms

FungicideChemical or biological substance to control pathogenic fungi in agriculture

FungistaticSubstance that inhibits fungal growth without killing the fungus

FusariumPhytopathogenic genus causing wilt, rots, and dangerous mycotoxins

Fusarium oxysporumPhytopathogenic species responsible for vascular tracheomycosis on many crops

PhalloidRelating to Phallaceae; fungi with phallic fruiting body and foul-smelling gleba

FamigliolaCommon name for honey fungi (Armillaria); they grow in families on stumps

Aerobic phaseComposting phase with abundant oxygen for rapid straw degradation

Mycelial feltsExperimental insulating and textile material produced from pressed mycelium

Fungal phenologyStudy of fruiting times of species in relation to climate and seasons

PhenotypeExternal appearance of the fungus determined by genotype and growth environment

Clamp (connection)Diagnostic structure of Basidiomycetes indicating the dikaryotic state of the hypha

PhylogenyReconstruction of evolutionary relationships among fungi based on molecular analyses

FilobasidiellaTeleomorph of Cryptococcus neoformans; pathogenic yeast with basidia

Fungal physiologyStudy of metabolic functions and vital processes in fungi

PhytochelatinsPeptides that fungi produce to sequester toxic heavy metals

UV fluorescenceEmission of visible light by certain fungi under UV lamp; diagnostic

Fomitopsis betulinaBirch polypore; medicinal polypore used by Ötzi the Iceman

Fomitopsis pinicolaRed-belted conk; large polypore of conifers with an orange margin

Rainforest (fungi)Tropical ecosystems host the greatest fungal diversity on the planet

Blue cheeseCheese with internal molds (P. roqueforti) creating blue-green veins

PhosphorylationBiochemical process involved in signal transduction in fungal cells

Photo-inhibitionInhibition of mycelial growth by intense light; mycelium prefers darkness

Fries, Elias MagnusFather of systematic mycology; his Systema Mycologicum (1821) is fundamental

FructanStorage polysaccharide present in some soil saprophytic fungi

Fruiting bodySynonym for basidiocarp or ascocarp

PhthalideAromatic compound produced by certain stromatic wood Ascomycetes

Fugacious (ring)Ring that disappears rapidly at maturity; difficult to observe in the adult fungus

FumagillinAntibiotic and antiangiogenic agent produced by Aspergillus fumigatus

Organic fungicultureCultivation of mushrooms using substrates and methods conforming to organic standards

Indoor fungicultureCultivation in enclosed environments with fully controlled environmental parameters

Outdoor fungicultureOutdoor cultivation on logs, mulch, or beds; traditional method

Soil fungistasisNatural inhibition of spore germination in soil due to microbial competition

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47 entries

Galerina marginataSmall deadly wood-loving fungus due to amatoxins; confusable with edibles

Golden chanterelleCommon name of Cantharellus cibarius; one of the most collected wild mushrooms in Europe

Stem (stipe)Part that supports the cap; can be solid, hollow, central or eccentric

Ganoderma applanatumArtist's conk; perennial flattened polypore; the pore surface marks with drawing

Ganoderma lucidumReishi; glossy medicinal polypore for immunomodulation and adaptation

GasteromycetesBasidiomycetes with enclosed hymenium: puffballs, earthstars, false truffles

GeastrumEarthstars; the outer layer splits open like a star revealing the spore sac

Gelatinous (fruiting body)Soft, translucent consistency typical of Tremella, Auricularia, Dacrymyces

Spore germinationProcess of reactivation and growth of a quiescent spore into a hyphal tube

GlebaInternal fertile mass of Gasteromycetes and truffles containing the spores

GloeocystidiaCystidia with oily/resinous content; visible as refractive elements under the microscope

GlomeralesOrder of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi; essential for most plants

GlucoamylaseFungal enzyme that breaks down starch into glucose; used in the food industry

Gomphidius glutinosusHideous gomphidius; edible, slimy with blackish decurrent gills

Gomphus clavatusPig's ear; edible club fungus with violet hymenial folds, rare

Grain spawnInoculum on sterilized grains colonized by mycelium to seed substrates

Grifola frondosaMaitake; large rosette-like edible polypore with immunostimulating beta-glucans

GriseofulvinAntifungal produced by Penicillium griseofulvum used to treat dermatophytosis

Grow boxDomestic container with controlled environmental parameters for growing mushrooms at home

Gyromitra esculentaFalse morel; potentially lethal due to gyromitrin; brain-shaped cap

GyromitrinToxin of the false morel partially degraded by cooking; hepatotoxic

GaleropsisRare genus of fungi similar to Galerina but with a different ring and habitat

Black chanterelleAlternative name for Craterellus cornucopioides; the black trumpet

Ganoderma applanatumArtist's bracket; perennial parasite of hardwoods used as a surface for drawings

Ganoderma tsugaeAmerican reishi; glossy polypore on Tsuga with properties similar to G. lucidum

Ganodermic acidBioactive triterpenoid from Ganoderma lucidum studied for antitumor properties

GasterocarpTechnical term for the fruiting body of Gasteromycetes with a closed hymenium

Geastrum triplexCollared earthstar; outer layer splits into a star with a central collar

Geastrum saccatumRounded earthstar; smaller and without collar compared to G. triplex

Fungal genomeComplete genetic makeup of a fungus; ranges from about 10 to 180 Mb

GeoglossumGenus of small black earth-tongue Ascomycetes, indicators of ancient grasslands

GeomycologyStudy of interactions between fungi and minerals/rocks in the geological environment

GeotrichumGenus of ubiquitous yeast-like fungi; used in the ripening of goat cheeses

GibberellaTeleomorph of Fusarium; causes wheat fusariosis and produces deoxynivalenol

GliotoxinImmunosuppressive mycotoxin produced by Aspergillus fumigatus in the lungs

GloeopleresHyphae with oily resinous content in polypores; visible as refractive channels

GlomalinGlycoprotein produced by AM fungi that improves soil aggregation

GlomusGenus of arbuscular fungi among the most widespread; now reclassified into Rhizophagus

GlucuronoxylanHemicellulose polysaccharide degraded by fungal xylanase enzymes

Xanthan gumPolysaccharide used industrially, also produced by fungal fermentation

GongronellaGenus of soil Zygomycetes used for chitosan production

Granulose (cap)Surface with small granules; typical of Suillus granulatus and Cystoderma

GregariousGrowth form in large, close groups but not cespitose

GrisolaVernacular name for Russula cyanoxantha in some Italian regions

Grow kitComplete kit for home mushroom cultivation; pre-inoculated substrate and instructions

Guaiac testReaction with guaiac tincture to detect the presence of oxidases in tissues

GuttulateContaining guttules (oil droplets); character of spores observed under the microscope

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H

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39 entries

HelvellaGenus of Ascomycetes with a saddle-shaped cap and ribbed stem; some edible

Helvella crispaWhite saddle; edible after cooking, with white fluted stem

Helvella lacunosaBlack elfin saddle; edible after cooking, with lobed grey-black cap

HEPA (filter)High-efficiency filter for sterile environments in fungiculture and laboratory

Hericium coralloidesCoral tooth fungus; protected species with cascades of branched white spines

Hericium erinaceusLion's mane; prized edible with pendulous spines, neuroprotective

HericenonesBioactive compounds from Hericium erinaceus that stimulate neurotrophic NGF factor

HistoplasmosisLung infection by Histoplasma capsulatum; dimorphic soil and guano fungus

HolomorphThe entire life cycle of the fungus comprising both the anamorph and teleomorph stages

HomobasidiomycetesSubclass of Basidiomycetes with non-septate basidia; the majority of gilled fungi

HumusDecomposed organic matter in soil; saprophytic fungi contribute to its formation

HydnaceaeFamily of fungi with a spine-bearing hymenophore; includes Hydnum and tooth fungi

Hydnum repandumWood hedgehog; edible with spines under the cap, delicate flavor

Hydnum rufescensTerracotta hedgehog; similar to the previous but smaller and orange

HygrocybeGenus of small waxy fungi with bright colors; bioindicators of undisturbed grasslands

HygrophoraceaeFamily with waxy gills; indicators of unfertilized meadows

Hygrophorus marzuolusMarch mushroom; prized spring edible of mountain conifers, mycorrhizal

Hygrophorus russulaRussula-like hygrophorus; edible with pinkish spotted cap under oaks

HymenogasterHypogeous genus similar to truffles, closely related to Boletes

Hypholoma fasciculareSulfur tuft; toxic bitter yellow-green fungus in tufts on stumps

Hypholoma lateritiumBrick cap; bitter fungus with brick-red cap on hardwood stumps

Hypomyces lactifluorumParasite that transforms Russula and Lactarius into the orange "lobster mushroom"

HypoxylonGenus of black, crusty stromatic Ascomycetes on dead hardwood

HuitlacocheGalls of Ustilago maydis on corn; delicacy of Mexican cuisine

Fungal habitatSpecific environment where a fungal species grows and fruits

Hapalopilus nidulansViolet polypore; small toxic polypore that stains fingers purple

HapteraAttachment structures of lichens to the substrate; similar to rhizoids

HelicosporeSpiral or helical spore; characteristic of aquatic genera like Helicoon

HelicobasidiumGenus of Basidiomycetes causing violet root rot on vegetable roots

HelotialesOrder of discomycete Ascomycetes with apothecia on plant substrates

Hemileia vastatrixCoffee rust; devastating parasite of tropical plantations

HericinophilesEnthusiasts of Hericium erinaceus as a nootropic and dietary supplement

Herpes zoster (non-fungus)Viral infection often confused with cutaneous mycosis in differential diagnosis

Heterobasidion annosumHeart rot fungus; devastating parasite of forest conifers

HeterokaryosisPresence of genetically different nuclei in a single mycelium

HohenbueheliaGenus of shelf fungi that are nematophagous; capture nematodes with adhesive secretions

HolotypeSingle specimen designated as the reference for the description of a new species

HuautlaMexican region of the Sierra Mazateca where R.G. Wasson documented the ritual use of mushrooms

HumariaGenus of small orange cup Ascomycetes of soil and litter

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38 entries

HydnologyStudy of fungi with a spine-bearing hymenophore (Hydnum, Sarcodon, Hericium)

HyphaBranching tubular filament; structural unit of the fungal mycelium

Generative hyphaThin-walled hypha with septa and clamps; produces other hyphal types

Skeletal hyphaThick-walled, non-septate hypha for structural support in polypores

Binding hyphaBranched hypha that connects skeletal hyphae; contributes to body consistency

HymeniumFertile layer bearing basidia or asci; located on gills, pores, or spines

HymenophoreSurface that supports the hymenium: gills, tubes/pores, spines, or folds

Spore printDeposit of spores on paper; color is fundamental for identification

InamyloidSpores that do not react with Melzer's reagent; neither amyloid nor dextrinoid

IncubationPeriod when the inoculated substrate is kept in the dark and warm for colonization

Inoculum (spawn)Material with live mycelium to seed the substrate; on grains, sawdust, or liquid

InocybeMycorrhizal genus with fibrous cap; many species poisonous due to muscarine

Inocybe erubescensDeadly fibrecap; highly toxic due to muscarine, confusable with edibles

Inonotus obliquusChaga; black mass on birches for antioxidant and adaptogenic supplements

Inonotus hispidusShaggy bracket; parasite of hardwoods with orange velvety fruiting body

HypogeousFungus with subterranean fruiting body; truffles are the quintessential hypogeous fungi

Mycological inspectorProfessional figure of the local health authority who certifies the edibility of collected mushrooms

ITS (region)Internal Transcribed Spacer; ribosomal DNA sequence used to identify fungi

IbotamideAnalog of ibotenic acid with neuroactive properties studied in pharmacology

IdnellumGenus of fungi with a spine-bearing hymenophore and hard flesh; releases red pigments

HydrophobinProtein on the surface of fungal spores that makes them hydrophobic for airborne dispersal

HygrophanousCap that changes color due to water absorption and loss; typical of Mycena and Psathyrella

Folded hymeniumFertile surface with irregular folds (not true gills); typical of chanterelles

ImmunomodulationRegulation of the immune system by fungal compounds (beta-glucans)

Imperfect (stage)Synonym for anamorph; the asexual phase of a fungus producing conidia

CappingDeformation of the cap due to excessively high CO₂ levels in the fruiting chamber

Index FungorumOfficial worldwide database of scientific names of fungi, managed by the Royal Botanic Gardens

Fungal infectionColonization of living tissues by a pathogenic fungus; synonym for mycosis

InoculationIntroduction of mycelium or spores into the substrate to start colonization

Liquid inoculumMycelium in sterile nutrient suspension for rapid substrate seeding

Sawdust inoculumSterilized sawdust colonized by mycelium, used to inoculate logs and substrates

Integrated (system)Cultivation approach combining fungi with other crops or agricultural waste

Clover-fungus interactionMycorrhizal symbiosis between legumes (clover) and AM fungi that increases N fixation

InterfertilityAbility of two fungal isolates to cross and produce fertile offspring

Invasive (fungus)Fungal species that colonizes new environments, damaging native ecosystems

InvertaseFungal enzyme that breaks down sucrose into glucose and fructose

IsidiaCortical protuberances of lichens for vegetative reproduction

IsolationSeparation of a single fungus from a mixed sample to obtain a pure culture

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J

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4 entries

Jelly fungiGelatinous fungi; Tremella, Auricularia, Dacrymyces with a rubbery consistency

Junghuhn, Friedrich19th-century German naturalist who cataloged tropical fungi of Southeast Asia

Jatoba (mycorrhizae)Tropical Hymenaea trees with rich communities of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi

Jumping genesMobile transposons in the fungal genome contributing to genetic variability

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K

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9 entries

Kefir (grains)Symbiotic community of yeasts and lactic acid bacteria for fermenting milk

KeratinophilicFungus that degrades keratin; dermatophytes colonize skin, nails, and hair

KOH (test)Reaction with potassium hydroxide on the cuticle for diagnostic color changes

KojiAspergillus oryzae cultivated on rice/soy for sake, miso, and soy sauce

Kuehneromyces mutabilisSheathed woodtuft; good edible wood fungus, similar to the deadly Galerina

Kombucha (yeasts in)Fermented beverage from yeasts and bacteria; Saccharomyces and other yeasts produce alcohol

KaryogamyFusion of nuclei in the fungal sexual cycle

King oysterEnglish name of Pleurotus eryngii; widely cultivated gourmet mushroom

Kingdom FungiThe kingdom of Fungi; one of the five kingdoms of life, distinct from plants and animals

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L

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65 entries

Laccaria amethystinaAmethyst deceiver; small violet edible fungus of humid woods

Laccaria laccataDeceiver; pinkish edible very common, ubiquitous mycorrhizal

LaccaseOxidative fungal enzyme that degrades lignin; used in bioremediation and industry

Lactarius deliciosusSaffron milk cap; prized edible with orange latex, mycorrhizal with pines

Lactarius deterrimusFalse saffron milk cap; edible with orange latex turning green

Lactarius piperatusPeppery milkcap; white fungus with intensely peppery latex, consumed locally

Lactarius salmonicolorSalmon milkcap; edible with orange latex under firs

Lactarius torminosusWoolly milkcap; toxic raw with hairy cap and acrid white latex

Lactarius volemusFishy milkcap; excellent edible with abundant sweet white latex

LamellaRadial blade-like structure under the cap covered by the fertile hymenium

Laricifomes officinalisQuinine conk; large medicinal polypore of conifers used for millennia

LatexLiquid exuded upon breaking in Lactarius; color and bruising are diagnostic

Mycelial latticeThree-dimensional network of hyphae forming the mycelium, the true fungal organism

Spore latticeReticulate ornamentation on the spore surface, visible under the microscope

LeccinumMycorrhizal genus similar to porcini with scabers on the stem; birch boletes

Leccinum aurantiacumRed-capped scaber stalk; edible with orange cap that blackens when cooked

Leccinum scabrumBrown birch bolete; modest edible with brownish cap and scaly stem

LentinanBeta-glucan from shiitake; immunostimulant approved in Japan for oncology

Lentinula edodesShiitake; second most cultivated mushroom in the world, rich in lentinan and umami

Lentinus tigrinusTiger sawgill; small wood fungus with scaly cap and eccentric stem

LepiotaGenus with ring; includes small deadly species with amatoxins and large edibles

Lepiota brunneoincarnataSmall deadly Lepiota with amatoxins; grows in gardens and parks

Lepiota cristataStinking dapperling; small, inedible, with unpleasant odor and reddish scales

Lepista nudaWood blewit; edible after cooking, entirely violet, with fruity odor

Lepista saevaField blewit; robust edible with violet stem and pale gills

Leucoagaricus leucothitesWhite dapperling; edible with caution, confusable with Amanita

LichenStable symbiosis between a fungus and an alga/cyanobacterium; autonomous composite organism

LigninComplex polymer of wood; only white rot fungi degrade it

LigninaseEnzymes (lignin-peroxidase, Mn-peroxidase) for lignin degradation

YeastUnicellular fungus that multiplies by budding; fundamental in fermentations

Lion's ManeEnglish name of Hericium erinaceus; very popular as a nootropic supplement

LithophilousFungus growing on rocky or mineral substrate; some lichens are lithophilous

Log cultivationCultivation on freshly cut inoculated logs; traditional method for shiitake and maitake

Fungal luciferinChemical substrate of fungal bioluminescence, oxidized by luciferase

LycoperdalesOrder of puffballs; globose Gasteromycetes that release spores as powder

Lycoperdon perlatumCommon puffball; edible when young with white and firm gleba

Lycoperdon pyriformePear-shaped puffball; grows on dead wood, edible when young

LacqueredShiny cap appearance as if varnished; typical of Ganoderma lucidum (reishi)

LactifluusGenus separated from Lactarius by molecular analyses; includes species with dense white latex

Lactifluus volemusFishy milkcap; now reclassified as Lactifluus, excellent edible

Lagotto RomagnoloItalian dog breed specialized in truffle hunting

LamellulaSmall gill that does not reach the stem; present between complete gills

LamprocystidiaCystidia with thick walls and crystalline encrustations; diagnostic under the microscope

LangermanniaSynonym of Calvatia; giant puffballs of meadows and forest edges

LattariniPopular name for mushrooms of the genus Lactarius in various Italian regions

Lactobacilli (in culture)Bacteria that can contaminate or compete with mycelium during culture

Wood chipsWood reduced to chips used as substrate or mulch for wood-loving fungi

LentinellusGenus of wood fungi with serrated gills and acrid peppery taste

LentinusGenus of wood fungi with gills with toothed margin; includes L. tigrinus

Lenzites betulinaGilled polypore of birch; similar to Trametes but with a lamellate hymenophore

LeotialesOrder of Ascomycetes including genera with fleshy apothecia and endophytic fungi

LepidellaSubgenus of Amanita with pointed warts; includes toxic species

Lepiota cristataSmall garden Lepiota with reddish scales and unpleasant odor; inedible

Lepista sordidaSordid blewit; similar to L. nuda but smaller and less colorful

LeucocarpinesAnti-inflammatory compounds isolated from fungi of the genus Leucocoprinus

Leucocoprinus birnbaumiiYellow pot plant mushroom; grows in flowerpot soil, inedible

LeucopaxillusGenus of large white saprophytic fungi with decurrent gills and white sporulation

LycoperdinPuffball spore powder used traditionally as a hemostatic on wounds

LimacellaGenus similar to Amanita but with a very slimy cap; some species edible

Linkage groupGroup of genes on a fungal chromosome that are inherited together

LyophilizationFreeze-drying by sublimation under vacuum; method for preserving fungal strains

Red listList of fungal species threatened with extinction; many species are on the red list

LithotrophOrganism that obtains energy from inorganic compounds; rare in fungi

LucifugousShunning light; mycelium grows preferentially in darkness

Lyophyllum decastesFried chicken mushroom; edible that grows in large clusters in disturbed soils

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M

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97 entries

Macrolepiota excoriataField parasol; edible, smaller and smoother than procera

Macrolepiota proceraParasol mushroom; large edible of meadows with scaly cap and ring

Macrolepiota rhacodesShaggy parasol; edible with flesh that reddens when cut

MaitakeGrifola frondosa; Japanese dancing mushroom, immunostimulant and gastronomic

Manganese-peroxidaseKey ligninolytic enzyme for lignin degradation

Marasmius oreadesFairy ring champignon; small edible of meadows that revives after drying

Marasmius rotulaPinwheel mushroom; tiny white fungus with black stem on leaves and twigs

White rotWood degradation with digestion of cellulose and lignin; wood becomes light and fibrous

Soft rotFruit degradation by pectinolytic fungi (Rhizopus, Mucor)

March mushroomHygrophorus marzuolus; prized spring edible of conifers

MatsutakeTricholoma matsutake; rare and expensive spicy-scented mushroom, Japanese symbol

MelaninDark pigment of the wall of many fungi; confers UV protection and resistance

MelanosporesFungus with dark (brown/black) spores in the spore print

Melzer's reagentIodine solution for testing spore amyloidy and dextrinoidy under the microscope

Metarhizium anisopliaeEntomopathogen used as a biological insecticide against termites and other insects

MyceliumNetwork of hyphae constituting the vegetative body of the fungus; the true organism

Primary myceliumHaploid mycelium from spore germination; single nucleus type

Secondary myceliumDikaryotic mycelium from fusion of two compatible primary mycelia; can fruit

Tertiary myceliumMycelium organized into plectenchymatous tissue that forms the fruiting body

Mycelium on agarCulture in Petri dish for isolation and preservation of fungal strains

Running myceliumMycelium growing rapidly without differentiating; colonization phase

MycenaVery large genus of small fragile fungi; some species bioluminescent

MycetismPoisoning from ingestion of toxic fungi; classified into syndromes

MycobiontFungal component of a lichen or a mycorrhizal symbiosis

MycobiotaCommunity of fungi in an environment or organism (e.g., gut mycobiota)

MycophagyFungus-based diet; practiced by insects, slugs, rodents, and humans

MycofiltrationUse of mycelium as a biological filter to purify contaminated water

MycophobiaCultural aversion towards mushrooms; typical of some Anglo-Saxon traditions

MycophiliaCultural tradition of appreciation for mushrooms; typical of Italy, France, Eastern Europe

MycologyScience that studies fungi: taxonomy, ecology, physiology, and applications

MycologistScientist of fungi; in Italy, ASL mycological inspectors certify wild mushrooms

MycomaterialsInnovative mycelium-based materials used for packaging, construction, and fashion

MycoproteinsProteins derived from fungal biomass; Quorn is produced from Fusarium venenatum

MycorrhizaMutualistic fungus-root symbiosis: minerals from fungus, sugars from plant

Arbuscular mycorrhizaMost widespread type (80% of plants) with intracellular arbuscules; Glomeromycetes

Orchid mycorrhizaObligate symbiosis orchids-fungi for seed germination without endosperm

MycosisFungal infection; superficial, cutaneous, subcutaneous, or systemic

Mycosis fungoidesCutaneous lymphoma not related to fungi but mimicking their clinical appearance

MycotherapyTherapeutic use of medicinal mushrooms in extracts or supplements

MycotoxinToxic metabolite of molds on food; aflatoxins, ochratoxin, fumonisins

MicrosporeSmall spore; in dermatophytes, microconidia contrasted with macroconidia

Monilia (Monilinia)Phytopathogenic genus causing brown rot of fruits (peaches, cherries)

MonokaryonCell or mycelium with a single nucleus; haploid stage of the life cycle

MonoterpenicVolatile compound responsible for the aroma of many edible mushrooms

Morchella conicaBlack morel; prized spring edible with pointed cap

Morchella esculentaYellow morel; prized spring edible honeycombed Ascomycete

Morchella elataBlack morel; prized edible with dark pits and lighter ribs

SlimeGelatinous substance on the cap cuticle of many fungi; protective and hydrating function

MucorGenus of Zygomycetes with spherical sporangia; common mold on food and soil

MoldColloquial term for microscopic filamentous fungi on food and surfaces

Noble rotBotrytis cinerea on ripe grapes that concentrates sugars and aromas for fine wines

MuscarineParasympathomimetic toxin in Inocybe and Clitocybe; treated with atropine

MuscimolPsychoactive compound of Amanita muscaria; GABA-A agonist, causes hallucinations

Mutinus caninusDog stinkhorn; small orange phalloid with foul-smelling gleba that attracts flies

MutualismType of symbiosis where both organisms benefit; the mycorrhiza

Leaf spotsNecrotic lesions on leaves caused by phytopathogenic fungi (Septoria, Cercospora)

MacrocidiaGenus with small clavate Ascomycetes on decaying leaves and stems

MacroscopicVisible to the naked eye; macroscopic description concerns shape, color, and consistency

MaltaseEnzyme that breaks down maltose into glucose; produced by many fungi

Mangroves (fungi of)Specialized marine fungi that decompose submerged wood of mangroves

Manna (lichens)Lecanora esculenta; edible desert lichen, possibly the biblical manna

Mantle (ectomycorrhiza)Hyphal sheath wrapping fine roots in ectomycorrhizae; visible under the microscope

Collar rotFungal infection at the base of plant stems; Phytophthora, Sclerotinia

Root rotFungal infection of roots; Armillaria, Rhizoctonia, Fusarium cause the most severe

MarzaioloAlternative name for marzuolo (Hygrophorus marzuolus); spring fungus

Master cultureMother culture kept as a genetic reference for a fungal strain

Organic matterResidues of decomposed organisms; fungi are the primary decomposers

MazaediaPowdery mass of spores and asci in certain lichens; released passively

MEA slantSlanted tube with malt agar for long-term storage of strains

Culture mediumArtificial nutrient substrate for fungi

MeiosisCell division that halves the number of chromosomes; occurs in the basidium or ascus

MelanobasidiumBasidium with dark pigment; rare character in some tropical Basidiomycetes

Merulius tremellosusGelatinous resupinate fungus with a poroid surface on dead hardwood

Primary metabolismEssential metabolic processes for growth; respiration, protein synthesis

Secondary metabolismProduction of non-essential but useful metabolites: antibiotics, toxins, pigments

MetabarcodingMolecular technique to identify all fungal species in an environmental sample

MetagenomeEntire DNA set of all organisms present in an environment, including fungi

Mica-likeCovered with bright, mica-like granules; typical of Coprinellus micaceus

MycangiumAnatomical structure of bark beetles for transporting symbiotic fungal spores

Soil microbiotaSoil microbial community including fungi, bacteria, protozoa, and archaea

MicroclimateLocal environmental conditions (T°, humidity, ventilation) crucial for fruiting

MicrofungiMicroscopic fungi: molds, yeasts, and imperfect fungi; contrasted with macrofungi

MicromycetesSynonym for microfungi; fungal organisms observable only under the microscope

Optical microscopeEssential tool for fungal identification: spores, cystidia, hyphae, connections

MicrostromaGenus of yeast-like phylloplane fungi living on the leaf surface

Pith (of the stem)Central part of the stem; can be solid, stuffed, fistulose, or hollow

Honey (contamination)Honey can contain Clostridium spores but also traces of fungal spores

Fungal mineralogyStudy of crystals and mineral deposits formed or modified by fungi

Integrated miticultureCombination of fungiculture with mussel farming; substrate from shells

MoniliasisInfection by Candida or Monilia; alternative term for oral candidiasis

MonoseptateSpore or conidium with a single transverse septum dividing it into two cells

MorelEnglish name for Morchella; among the most prized wild mushrooms

MotilityAbility for autonomous movement; present only in zoospores of Chytridiomycetes

MougeotiaGenus of green algae that can associate with fungi in lichens

SlimeGelatinous substance on the surface of many fungi; hydrates and protects tissues

MucoraleRelating to the order Mucorales; Zygomycetes with spherical sporangia (Mucor, Rhizopus)

Obligate mutualismSymbiosis where neither partner can live without the other; orchid mycorrhizae

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N

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22 entries

NamekoPholiota nameko; Japanese mushroom with slimy orange cap for miso soup

Spore cloudCloud of billions of spores released by mature fungi like puffballs

NecrotrophPathogenic fungus that kills host cells before feeding on them

NematophagousFungus predatory on nematodes with adhesive hyphal traps (Arthrobotrys)

Neurospora crassaOrange model mold in genetics; contributed to the one gene-one enzyme theory

NGF (Nerve Growth Factor)Stimulated by hericenones and erinacines from Hericium erinaceus

NystatinPolyene antifungal from Streptomyces noursei used against candidiasis

Harmful (fungus)Fungus that causes mild and transient gastrointestinal disorders if ingested

Nostoc-fungusAssociation between Nostoc cyanobacteria and lichen fungi in humid environments

Nuclei (in fungi)Mono-, bi-, or multinucleate fungal cells with reproductive implications

Naematelia aurantiaOrange gelatinous fungus parasitic on Stereum; similar to Tremella

Electronic noseDevice that detects volatile compounds of truffles for artificial localization

NecrotrophyStrategy where the fungus kills tissues before colonizing them; rots

NematicideFungus or substance that kills nematodes; Arthrobotrys and Drechmeria

NidulariaceaeBird's nest fungi family; small cup-shaped Gasteromycetes with peridioles

NidularialesOrder of bird's nest fungi that disperse spores with raindrops

NitrificationContribution of fungi to the nitrogen cycle through mineralization of organic matter

NolaneaSubgenus of Entoloma with conical-campanulate cap; pink angular spores

Binomial nomenclatureNaming system with genus and species; Agaricus bisporus for example

NostocCyanobacterium that acts as a photobiont in some lichens, fixing atmospheric nitrogen

Nuclear (divisions)Synchronous mitoses in coenocytic hyphae; nuclear division without cytokinesis

NutationOscillatory movement of the hyphal tip during growth; orientation towards the substrate

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O

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27 entries

Powdery mildewWhite disease; foliar disease by erysiphaceous Ascomycetes with powdery white felt

Omphalotus oleariusJack-o'-lantern mushroom; toxic orange bioluminescent fungus confusable with chanterelle

OnychomycosisFungal infection of nails by dermatophytes or Candida; very common in humans

OosporeSexual spore of Oomycetes produced by fertilization of the oogonium

OomycetesFungus-like organisms in the kingdom Stramenopila; Phytophthora, downy mildew

OrellanineNephrotoxic toxin of Cortinarius; renal failure with late symptoms

Orchids (mycorrhiza)Obligate symbiosis with Rhizoctonia/Tulasnella for germination of orchid seeds

OrnithophilyFungal dispersal via birds that consume and transport spores

OxidaseFungal enzymes for oxidation reactions; laccases and peroxidases of lignin

OstioleApical opening of the perithecium through which ascospores are expelled

Oudemansiella mucidaPorcelain fungus; bright white and slimy on trunks of living beech

Egg stageJuvenile stage of Amanita wrapped in the universal veil, resembling an egg

Ochratoxin ANephrotoxic mycotoxin produced by Aspergillus and Penicillium on cereals and coffee

Odor (character)Mushroom odor is diagnostic: flour, anise, honey, peach, turnip, semen, bleach

Oidium (conidium)Asexual spore derived from hyphal fragmentation; different from powdery mildew disease

OleoresinOily and resinous secretion present in cystidia and hyphae of certain fungi

OligomyceteFungus that grows in very nutrient-poor substrates; oligotrophic style

OlivaceousGreen-olive color; frequent shade in caps of Amanita phalloides

OmbrofilousFungus that prefers humid and rainy environments for fruiting

OmphalinaGeneric term for fungi with an umbilicate cap (depressed at the center)

OntogenesisDevelopment of the fruiting body from the initial primordium to maturity

Operculate (ascus)Ascus with an apical lid (operculum) for ascospore release

OpisthokontsSuperkingdom that includes fungi and animals; they share a common flagellated ancestor

Mycological orchidophiliaStudy and conservation of orchids in relation to essential mycorrhizal fungi

Model organismSpecies used for research; Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Neurospora crassa in genetics

OsmotrophyNutrition by absorption of dissolved molecules; exclusive mode of fungi

OtideaGenus of Ascomycetes with ear-shaped apothecia; O. onotica is the donkey's ear

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P

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104 entries

PanaeolusGenus of small coprophilous fungi with black sporulation; some species psychoactive

Panaeolus cyanescensTropical coprophilous psychoactive fungus with high psilocybin content

Panellus stipticusSmall bioluminescent wood fungus with strongly astringent taste

ParasiteFungus that feeds on living organisms, harming them; nutritional strategy

Biotrophic parasiteParasite that requires a living host for nutrition; rusts and powdery mildews

Necrotrophic parasiteParasite that kills cells first then absorbs nutrients

ParenthesomeMembrane structure around the dolipore regulating passage between cells

Cell wallRigid structure external to the membrane; composed of chitin, glucans, and proteins

PasteurizationHeat treatment (60-80°C) that eliminates pathogens while preserving beneficials

Paxillus involutusPoison pax; toxic fungus with inrolled margin; causes potentially fatal hemolytic anemia

PectinaseEnzymes that degrade plant pectin; produced by phytopathogens

PenicillinFirst antibiotic discovered; from Penicillium notatum, Fleming 1928

PenicilliumBrush molds; antibiotics, cheese ripening (roqueforti, camemberti)

Penicillium camembertiWhite mold for surface ripening of Camembert and Brie

Penicillium roquefortiBlue-green mold for producing Roquefort, Gorgonzola, and blue cheeses

PeridiumOuter covering of Gasteromycetes enclosing the fertile gleba

PeritheciumFlask-shaped ascocarp with apical opening (ostiole) to expel ascospores

Downy mildewDisease caused by Oomycetes (not true fungi); devastating on grape, potato, tomato

PezizaGenus of cup Ascomycetes on disturbed soils and burnt wood

Substrate pHAcidity of the substrate crucial in cultivation; each species has an optimal range

PhallaceaeFamily of phalloid Gasteromycetes; phallic fruiting bodies with fetid gleba

Phallus impudicusStinkhorn; phallic fungus with cadaveric odor; edible only as an egg

PholiotaWood genus with scaly, slimy cap; includes the cultivated nameko

Phytophthora infestansDevastating potato Oomycete; caused the Great Irish Famine (1845)

Athlete's footTinea pedis; cutaneous mycosis of the foot caused by dermatophytes, favored by humidity

PileusScientific term for mushroom cap; from Latin pileus (cap)

PinningFormation of primordia; tiny sketches of future fruiting bodies on the substrate

Poplar mushroomAgrocybe aegerita; cultivated since ancient times, exquisite taste, fleshy texture

Pisolithus arhizusBalloon-like hypogeous fungus; mycorrhizal used for reforestation of degraded soils

PlasmogamyFusion of the cytoplasms of two cells during sexual reproduction

PlectenchymatousFungal tissue formed by interwoven and compacted hyphae; constitutes the fruiting body

Pleurotus citrinopileatusGolden oyster mushroom; cultivated edible with lemon-yellow cap

Pleurotus djamorPink oyster mushroom; cultivated tropical edible with bright pink cap

Pleurotus eryngiiKing oyster mushroom; excellent from Mediterranean steppes on Eryngium campestre

Pleurotus ostreatusOyster mushroom; shelf edible on hardwoods; the most cultivated after button mushroom

Pleurotus pulmonariusPhenix oyster; edible similar to ostreatus, paler and summer

Pleurotus sajor-cajuGrey oyster mushroom from Southeast Asia, cultivated for its delicate flavor

PolyporeFungus with poroid/tubular hymenophore, often wood-inhabiting and perennial

Polysaccharide-KBeta-glucan from Trametes versicolor; immunostimulant used in oncology in Japan

Polystigma rubrumAscomycete parasite of almond trees causing red spots on leaves

PorciniGroup of Boletus edulis; the most sought-after and prized edible mushrooms in Europe

Substrate porosityAir spaces in the substrate essential for gas exchange and mycelial growth

PortobelloMature Agaricus bisporus with open cap; meaty texture and intense flavor

PrimordiumEmbryonic stage of the fruiting body; undifferentiated mass that will become a mushroom

ProtoperitheciumJuvenile stage of the perithecium before ascus formation

St. George's mushroomCalocybe gambosa; spring meadow fungus with floury odor, highly prized

PSK (Polysaccharide-K)Immunostimulant extract from Trametes versicolor used in integrative oncology

PsilocybinPsychoactive alkaloid of Psilocybe; studied for depression, PTSD, and addictions

PsilocinActive metabolite of psilocybin; serotonergic agonist responsible for the effects

PsilocybeGenus of psychoactive fungi (>200 species) containing psilocybin and psilocin

Psilocybe cubensisBest-known and most cultivated tropical psychoactive species; golden cap on dung

Psilocybe semilanceataPsychoactive European meadow mushroom; conical cap with papilla

PucciniaGenus of rusts parasitic on grasses with complex cycles on multiple hosts

PuffballEnglish term for puffball; globose fungus that releases spores as powder

Straw (substrate)Pasteurized wheat or rice straw used as substrate for Pleurotus and Stropharia

Panaeolus foeniseciiLawn mower's mushroom; very common in gardens, weakly psychoactive in some populations

Panellus serotinusLate fall oyster; edible with greenish cap on hardwood

Parasitica (Piptoporus)Genus of birch parasites; Fomitopsis betulina is the best known

Experimental plotDelimited area for cultivation trials, inoculation, or ecological study

Spore wallProtective covering of the spore; composed of chitin, melanin, and glucans

Partial (veil)See partial veil; membrane from cap to stem covering young gills

PatulinNeurotoxic mycotoxin from Penicillium expansum on apples and contaminated juices

PDA (Potato Dextrose Agar)Standard medium for fungal culture: potato extract + dextrose + agar

DeerskinAppearance of the cuticle of certain boletes (Xerocomus) with cracked, velvety surface

Stylar penetrationEntry of the germ tube into plant tissue through the plant's stomata

PerenniporiaGenus of very hard perennial polypores with minute pores on hardwood

Peridial (cell)Cell of the protective layer of cleistothecia and perithecia in Ascomycetes

Perithecial (stroma)Stromatic mass containing immersed perithecia; typical of Nectria and Xylaria

Permaculture (fungi in)Integration of fungi into permaculture systems; mycelium for soil and decomposition

Persoon, Christiaan HendrikDutch mycologist, founder of modern fungal systematics (Synopsis Methodica, 1801)

PestalotiopsisEndophytic and phytopathogenic genus; some species degrade polyurethane plastic

Biological pesticideEntomopathogenic or antagonistic fungus used as an alternative to chemical pesticides

Phenol testApplication of phenol or aniline on mushroom flesh for diagnostic color reactions

PhylogenomicsPhylogenetic reconstruction based on entire sequenced fungal genomes

Phyllotopsis nidulansOrange shelf fungus with fetid odor; saprophyte on conifer wood

PycnidiumFlask-shaped conidial structure immersed in host tissues; Phoma, Septoria

Pig's footPopular name for Hydnum repandum; the wood hedgehog of forests

PileocystidiaCystidia present on the cap surface; microscopic character

PilobolusCoprophilous genus that launches the sporangium towards light with osmotic pressure

Pine (mycorrhizae of)Pines host many ectomycorrhizae: Suillus, Rhizopogon, Tricholoma, Lactarius

Tinea versicolorSkin infection by Malassezia causing depigmented patches; cutaneous yeast

PlasmogamyFusion of the cytoplasms of two fungal cells; first phase of sexual reproduction

PlectenchymaTissue formed by tightly interwoven hyphae; constitutes the fruiting body of macromycetes

PleomorphismAbility of a fungus to assume different forms during its life cycle

Pluteus cervinusFawn mushroom; edible with free pink gills and brown cap on dead wood

PolymorphismVariability in shape and color within the same fungal species

PolyporaceaeFamily of Basidiomycetes with a poroid hymenophore; includes many wood-inhabiting fungi

Pumice (substrate)Porous volcanic rock used as an inert additive in substrate for aeration

Postia caesiaBleeding conifer crust; small wood polypore with pores turning blue

Buffering capacityAbility of the substrate to resist pH changes; important in cultivation

Field mushroomCommon name for fungi of the genus Agaricus that grow in meadows and pastures

PrionInfectious protein; prions are not fungi but are sometimes confused in diagnosis

Probiotic yeastSaccharomyces boulardii; yeast used as a probiotic for diarrhea and dysbiosis

PromyceliumGerminative structure of rust teliospores that produces basidiospores

PropaguleAny structure capable of generating a new individual: spore, hyphal fragment, sclerotium

ProsenchymaFungal tissue with parallel, non-interwoven hyphae; in the stem of many fungi

ProtoplastFungal cell stripped of its cell wall; used for fusion and genetic manipulation

PruinaFine waxy powder on the surface of the cap or stem; frosty, matte appearance

PseudoesclerotiumHardened mass of substrate and mycelium that is not a true biological sclerotium

PseudorhizaeCracks in the cap cuticle due to drying; typical of Russula virescens

PseudovalsaGenus of wood Ascomycetes with black stromata and immersed perithecia

Psilocybin mushroomsPolyphyletic group of mushrooms containing psilocybin; >200 species in different genera

PullulanIndustrial polysaccharide produced by Aureobasidium pullulans for films and coatings

PutrescineDiamine present in decomposing mushrooms; contributes to cadaveric odors

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Q

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3 entries

QuornFood from mycoproteins of Fusarium venenatum; protein alternative to meat

Quercus (mycorrhizae)Oaks host hundreds of ectomycorrhizal species including porcini and truffles

Quarantine (in fungiculture)Isolation of new cultures to verify the absence of contaminants

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R

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53 entries

RamariaGenus of branched coral fungi; some species edible, others toxic

Ramaria botrytisPink coral; edible coral fungus with reddish tips

Ferrous sulfate reactionChemical test FeSO₄ on flesh for identification of Russula

Guaiac reactionTest with guaiac tincture to detect oxidases in fungal tissues

ReishiGanoderma lucidum; mushroom of immortality, adaptogen and immunomodulator

Hartig netHyphal network between root cells in ectomycorrhizae; site of exchange

Mycelial networkInterconnected system of hyphae in the soil; can extend for hundreds of meters

RhizoctoniaSoil genus causing root rots; includes orchid mycorrhizal fungi

RhizomorphCompact cord of hyphae resembling a root for long-distance transport (Armillaria)

RhizopusBread mold with sporangia; R. oligosporus produces Indonesian tempeh

Mycelial regenerationAbility of the mycelium to repair damage and regrow after mechanical breakage

RhizosphereSoil zone adjacent to roots; rich in fungus-plant interactions

Rubroboletus satanasDevil's bolete; toxic with white cap, red pores, and flesh turning blue

RustPucciniales; obligately parasitic Basidiomycetes with cycles up to 5 spore types

Wheat rustPuccinia graminis; devastating cereal disease with cycles on barberry

RussulaVery large genus of fragile mycorrhizal fungi; granular flesh that crumbles

Russula aureaGolden russula; good edible with golden red-orange cap

Russula cyanoxanthaCharcoal burner; among the best russulas, flexible and greasy gills

Russula emeticaSickener; toxic raw, bright red cap, very peppery taste

Russula integraWhole russula; edible with brown cap and sweet taste

Russula vescaBare-toothed russula; edible prized russula with pink-brown cap and white gills

Russula virescensGreen-cracking russula; excellent edible with cracked green-grey cap

RadicicultureCultivation that exploits mycorrhizae to improve root absorption

Dichotomous branchingDivision of the hypha into two equal branches; growth pattern of certain fungi

C/N ratioCarbon/nitrogen ratio of the substrate; critical for mycelial growth (20:1-40:1)

RarefactionDecrease in fungal diversity due to habitat loss or pollution

Congo red reagentStain used in microscopy to highlight hyphal walls and spores

Melzer's reagentIodine solution for amyloid and dextrinoid reaction of spores

Temperature controlTemperature regulation in the cultivation chamber; heating and cooling

ReishiGanoderma lucidum; mushroom of immortality, pillar of oriental mycotherapy

ResinousOily content in cystidia and hyphae; granular appearance under the microscope

ResupinateFlat growth adhering to the substrate without differentiated cap; crust fungi

Reticulum (of the stem)Raised network on the stem of porcini; formed by venous anastomoses

ReticulateNet-like spore ornamentation; typical of certain Boletus and Tuber species

Retrofit (in fungiculture)Adaptation of existing spaces (cellars, containers) for fungal cultivation

RhabdomycosisRare term for fungal infection of muscle fibers

Rhizina undulataBrown crust fungus on burnt soil; post-fire root parasite

RhizopogonHypogeous mycorrhizal genus of conifers; fruiting bodies similar to truffles

Truffle huntingSearch activity with a trained dog (trifolao); regionally regulated

Folk remedyTraditional use of fungi in empirical medicine: amadou, chaga, reishi, Ötzi

Asexual reproductionMultiplication without meiosis via conidia, fragmentation, or budding

Sexual reproductionCycle with plasmogamy, karyogamy, and meiosis; produces genetic variability

RhizoctoniosisPlant disease caused by Rhizoctonia solani; basal rot of vegetables

Rhizosphere (effect)Influence of roots on the surrounding fungal community in the soil

RNA polymerase IIEnzyme target of amatoxins; its blockade stops gene transcription

Mushroom knifeTraditional tool of the mushroom gatherer for cleaning and cutting fruiting bodies

Pink (sporulation)Pink spore print; character of Entoloma, Pluteus, Volvariella

RostrateSpore with a beak or apical protuberance; diagnostic microscopic character

Spore rugosityIrregular spore ornamentation visible at high magnification

Russula foetensStinking russula; inedible with rancid fish odor and acrid taste

Russula nigricansBlackening russula; large russula that turns completely black when cut

Russula olivaceaOlive russula; large edible russula of beech forests with olive cap

Russula viridicataGreenish russula; edible with green cap, confusable with poisonous ones

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S

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97 entries

Saccharomyces cerevisiaeBaker's/brewer's yeast; the most important fungus for humanity in fermentations

Saccharomyces bayanusYeast for winemaking and sparkling wine production; ferments at low temperatures

SaprophyteFungus that feeds on dead organic matter; ecological role in recycling

Sarcodon imbricatusShingled hedgehog; edible with spines, bitter taste, good when dried

Gas exchangeCrucial air exchange in fungiculture to remove CO₂ and supply O₂

Scleroderma citrinumCommon earthball; inedible with violet gleba and thick peridium

SclerotiumHardened mass of dormant hyphae; resistance structure (ergot, Sclerotinia)

SclerotiniaPhytopathogenic genus with black sclerotia; causes white rots on vegetables

ScorzoneTuber aestivum; summer black truffle, less prized but more abundant and cultivable

Sawdust (substrate)Hardwood sawdust with bran for shiitake, maitake, lion's mane

SeptumCross wall of the hypha; central pore for cytoplasm passage

Dolipore septumSeptum with a barrel-shaped pore of Basidiomycetes surrounded by the parenthesome

ShiitakeLentinula edodes; second most cultivated mushroom, rich in lentinan and umami

Thermal shockSudden temperature change to induce fruiting in cultivated mushrooms

SGFC (Shotgun Fruiting Chamber)DIY fruiting chamber with multiple holes for passive air exchange

SymbiontOrganism in close association; mycorrhizal fungi are mutualistic symbionts

Coprine syndromeAntabuse effect from Coprinopsis atramentaria with alcohol; nausea and tachycardia

Phalloid syndromeAmatoxin poisoning; 6-24h latency, liver necrosis, high mortality

Gastrointestinal syndromeMost common fungal poisoning; nausea and diarrhea with short latency

Gyromitrin syndromePoisoning by gyromitrin; hemolysis and liver damage from false morel

Muscarinic syndromePoisoning by muscarine; sweating, miosis, bradycardia; treated with atropine

Orellanine syndromePoisoning by orellanine; nephritis and renal failure with late latency

Pantherina syndromePoisoning by A. muscaria/pantherina; agitation, hallucinations, convulsions

Paxillic syndromeImmune-mediated hemolytic anemia from repeated consumption of Paxillus involutus

Psilocybin syndromePsychedelic effects of psilocybin; perceptual, emotional, and cognitive alterations

Soft rotSoft wood rot by Ascomycetes under conditions of high humidity

Mycological surveillanceHealth monitoring of mushrooms sold and collected by local health authorities

Sparassis crispaCauliflower fungus; large curled edible at the base of conifers

SpawnMycelial inoculum on grains, sawdust, or liquid to seed substrates

Spawn masterHigh-quality spawn culture from which production batches are derived

Spawn ratePercentage of inoculum relative to substrate weight; typically 5-10%

Spawn runColonization phase in which the inoculum mycelium pervades the entire substrate

SporeMicroscopic reproductive unit; sexual or asexual, dispersed by wind or animals

SporangiumSac that produces asexual sporangiospores in Zygomycetes (Mucor, Rhizopus)

Spore printDeposit of spores on paper; color (white, pink, ochre, brown, black) is diagnostic

SporophoreSynonym for fruiting body; structure that bears and disperses spores

SporulationProcess of spore formation and release by the fruiting body

Stamets, PaulAmerican mycologist, pioneer of fungiculture, mycoremediation, and dissemination

Tooth fungusFungus with pendant spine-like hymenophore (Hydnum, Sarcodon, Hericium)

SterigmaThin projection on the basidium that supports the basidiospore before release

SterilizationTotal elimination of microorganisms from the substrate; autoclave at 121°C for 90 min

Still Air BoxDIY no-flow chamber for amateur aseptic transfers

StipeScientific synonym for stem of the fruiting body

StromaCompact mass of fungal tissue on which fruiting bodies grow (Xylaria)

Stropharia rugosoannulataWine-red stropharia; edible cultivable in gardens on mulch

SubstrateNutritive material for cultivation: straw, sawdust, compost, logs

Supplemented substrateSubstrate enriched with bran, soybean meal, or gypsum for higher yield

SuillusBolete genus mycorrhizal with conifers, slimy cap; slippery jack, larch bolete

Suillus granulatusGranulated bolete; edible with droplets on the upper part of the tubes

Suillus grevilleiLarch bolete; edible mycorrhizal with larch, with yellow slimy cap

Suillus luteusSlippery jack; edible of pines with brown slimy cap and membranous ring

Cultivation bagsPolypropylene bags with a filter for gas exchange; standard containers in fungiculture

Saccharomyces boulardiiProbiotic yeast used to prevent and treat antibiotic-associated diarrhea

SaccharomycetalesOrder of true yeasts; includes the genera Saccharomyces, Candida, Pichia

Enzymatic assayLaboratory test to measure the activity of fungal enzymes (cellulase, laccase)

SaprobeFungus living on dead organic matter; synonym for saprophyte

SaprotrophismNutritional mode based on the decomposition of dead organic matter

Split gillSchizophyllum commune; cosmopolitan fungus with split gills, ubiquitous on wood

SclerodermatalesOrder of false truffles and earthballs; Gasteromycetes with leathery peridium

Bark beetlesBark beetles that cultivate ambrosia fungi in wood galleries

Orange peelAppearance of the surface of Aleuria aurantia; bright orange disc

SecotioidIntermediate evolutionary stage between agaric and gasteromycete with compressed gills

Liquid seedingSubstrate inoculation with liquid mycelium culture via sterile syringe

Humidity sensorElectronic device to monitor relative humidity in cultivation chambers

DNA sequencingTechnique to determine the order of nucleotides in fungal DNA; key for modern taxonomy

SiderophoreMolecule produced by fungi to capture iron from the soil; essential for growth

Mycological silvicultureForest management that considers and promotes the production of wild mushrooms

Szechwan syndromeToxic reaction from raw or undercooked Auricularia; transient thrombocytopenia

Hyphal systemClassification of fungal tissue into monomitic, dimitic, or trimitic

SmutUstilaginales parasites of cereals

SoakingImmersion of inoculated logs in water to induce shiitake fruiting

Solanum (mycorrhizae of)Solanaceae (potato, tomato) with AM mycorrhizae; Glomus improves phosphorus and resistance

Copper sulfateTraditional fungicide (Bordeaux mixture) used against downy mildew and powdery mildew

SoraliumLichen structure that produces soredia for asexual reproduction

SorediumVegetative reproductive unit of lichens; contains fungal hyphae and algal cells

UnderstoryLower layer of the forest where the majority of macromycetes fruit

Spain (mycology)Strong Iberian mycological tradition with Mediterranean and Atlantic species

SpermogoniumStructure of rusts producing spermatia for fertilization of the host

SporangiophoreErect hypha bearing the sporangium in Zygomycetes like Mucor and Pilobolus

Spore printFundamental identification technique

SporodochiumCushion-like conidiogenous structure on which conidiophores and conidia aggregate

In vitro sporulationSpore production under laboratory conditions for studies and inoculation

StatismosporeSpore not actively launched; falls by gravity (e.g., Gasteromycetes)

StatinsCholesterol-lowering drugs originally derived from fungal metabolites (Aspergillus)

Tooth fungusFungus with pendant spine-like hymenophore; Hydnum, Sarcodon, Hericium, Bankera

Sterility (in culture)Total aseptic condition necessary for handling pure fungal cultures

Mycelial stilettoSharp tip of the hypha used for mechanical penetration of hard substrates

StolonHorizontal hypha connecting sporangiophores in Zygomycetes (Rhizopus)

StratificationVertical organization of the fungal community in soil and litter

Stropharia aeruginosaVerdigris agaric; greenish slimy fungus of humid woods, inedible

SublimationTransition from solid to gaseous state; basis of freeze-drying of strains

SubiculumBasal layer of hyphae on which the fruiting bodies of resupinate fungi grow

Ecological successionTurnover of fungal species on a substrate: primary, secondary, late-stage

SuberinImpermeable polymer of the bark; some fungi degrade it to penetrate

Sulcate sporeSpore with longitudinal grooves; diagnostic ornamentation in certain genera

SupplementationAddition of nutrients (bran, soybean) to the substrate to increase yield

OverwinteringSurvival of mycelium during winter in the form of sclerotia or rhizomorphs

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T

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77 entries

ThallusUndifferentiated vegetative body of fungi; the entire mycelium is the thallus

TruffleGenus Tuber; hypogeous Ascomycetes with fragrant, prized subterranean fruiting bodies

White truffle (T. magnatum)The most prized and expensive; found mainly in Piedmont, not cultivable

Bianchetto truffle (T. borchii)Minor white truffle; less prized than magnatum but more widespread

Black Périgord truffle (T. melanosporum)Second most prized; cultivable in truffle orchards with oaks and hazelnuts

Summer truffle (T. aestivum)Scorzone; less prized but more common and cultivable

Winter truffle (T. brumale)Black winter truffle, less aromatic than melanosporum, more economical

Truffle orchard (tartufaia)Tree plantation with mycorrhized plants for controlled truffle production

Truffle groundSoil with characteristics favorable to truffles: calcareous, well-drained, exposed

Inoculated dowelWood cylinder colonized by mycelium for inoculating logs

TeleomorphSexual stage of the fungal life cycle; contrasted with the asexual anamorph

TempehFermented soybean food with Rhizopus oligosporus; rich in protein

Fruiting temperatureOptimal temperature range for the formation of fruiting bodies; varies by species

TerfeziaGenus of desert truffles; hypogeous of arid Mediterranean and North African environments

ThermophilicFungus that grows above 40-50°C; present in composting processes

ThermotolerantFungus that survives high temperatures without necessarily being thermophilic

Culture mediumArtificial nutrient substrate solidified with agar for laboratory cultures

Death capCommon name for poisonous Amanita (phalloides = death cap, pantherina = panther cap)

RingwormCutaneous infection by dermatophytes with ring-shaped lesions on skin and scalp

Fungal toxinsToxic secondary metabolites: amatoxins, orellanine, muscarine, psilocybin

Trametes gibbosaLumpy bracket; whitish shelf fungus with elongated pores on hardwoods

Trametes versicolorTurkey tail; multicolored banded polypore, source of oncological PSK

Aseptic transferPassage of mycelium between sterile containers without introducing contaminants

TremellaGelatinous genus parasitic on other fungi; T. fuciformis cultivated in China

Tremella fuciformisSnow/silver fungus; white gelatinous cultivated for gastronomy and cosmetics

TrichodermaGenus of green molds; agricultural biocontrol but feared contaminant in fungiculture

Trichoderma harzianumSpecies used as a biocontrol agent against soil phytopathogens

TricholomaRobust mycorrhizal genus; matsutake, moretta, and the controversial T. equestre

Tricholoma equestreMan on horseback; once considered edible, now considered toxic in high doses

Tricholoma portentosumPortentous tricholoma; edible with grey-violet fibrillose cap

Tricholoma terreumGrey knight; small edible grey of pines, controversial for dose toxicity

TrifolaPiedmontese name for white truffle; from it trifolao (hunter) and trifolatura

Inoculated logWood segment with mycelial dowels/sawdust for wood-loving cultivation

TuberFleshy subterranean fruiting body of truffles; not to be confused with botanical tuber

TubesCylindrical structures under the cap of Boletales with pores at the end

TulasnellaMicroscopic genus for orchid mycorrhizae; indispensable for orchids

TuberGenus of truffles; hypogeous Ascomycetes with globose, fragrant ascocarps

Tobacco (mold of)Aspergillus and Penicillium that contaminate tobacco during curing and storage

ThallophyteOrganism with undifferentiated thallus body; fungi are thallophytes

TanninPlant polyphenolic compound that inhibits the growth of certain fungi

Tapinella atrotomentosaVelvet roll-rim; fungus with black tomentose stem on conifer stumps; inedible

Molecular taxonomyClassification based on DNA sequences; has revolutionized fungal systematics

Polyphasic taxonomyApproach combining morphology, ecology, and molecular data to classify fungi

TeliaStructure of rusts that produces teliospores; final stage of the life cycle

TeliosporeResistance spore of rusts; germinates producing a basidium (promycelium)

Incubation temperatureOptimal range for substrate colonization; varies by species (20-30°C)

Chickpea tempehVariant of traditional tempeh prepared with chickpeas fermented by Rhizopus

TephrocybeGenus of small grey fungi of meadows and litter

TerpeneClass of volatile organic compounds responsible for fungal aromas

Terrestrial (habitat)Fungus growing directly from the ground; contrasted with lignicolous or coprophilous

Pseudoparenchymatous tissueFungal tissue with isodiametric cells similar to plant parenchyma

ThallusLatin term for thallus; the undifferentiated vegetative body of the fungus

ThelephoraGenus of earthy, leathery mycorrhizal fungi with fan or resupinate shape

TomentoseCovered with dense, soft fuzz; surface of the stem of Tapinella

TorulaGenus of black anamorphic fungi used for the production of food yeast

TotipotencyAbility of every fungal cell to regenerate the entire organism

Fungal toxicologyStudy of toxins produced by fungi and their effects on organisms

TracheomycosisVascular disease of plants where the fungus (Fusarium, Verticillium) blocks xylem vessels

Trametes hirsutaHairy bracket; shelf fungus with grey hairy surface on dead wood

Trametes ochraceaOchre bracket; similar to T. versicolor but with warmer tones

TranslocationTransport of nutrients and water through the hyphae and rhizomorphs of the mycelium

Liver transplantLife-saving intervention in amatoxin poisoning when liver damage is irreversible

Hyphal trapStructure of nematophagous fungi to capture worms: rings, adhesive nets, knobs

ITS1 regionPortion of the first internal transcribed spacer; used for fungal barcoding

ITS2 regionPortion of the second internal transcribed spacer; complementary to ITS1 in taxonomy

Turpentine (odor of)Characteristic odor of certain Lactarius and conifer polypores

TricholomaAlternative spelling of Tricholoma; mycorrhizal genus with >200 species

TrichothecenesMycotoxins produced by Fusarium that contaminate cereals; toxic to humans and animals

TrifolaoTruffle hunter in Piedmontese dialect; traditional figure with a dog in tow

TrifolaturaPiedmontese culinary preparation with white truffle sliced into thin shavings

TropismDirectional growth response to external stimuli: light, gravity, nutrients

TrufaDialectal name for truffle in various regions of Italy and Spain

Tubaria furfuraceaSmall brown scurfy fungus on wood chips and mulch

TuberalesOrder of hypogeous Ascomycetes that includes the true truffles of the genus Tuber

Truffle-maniaCultural phenomenon of extreme passion for truffle hunting and consumption

TurbidimetryTechnique for measuring the growth of yeasts in liquid culture via turbidity

Turkey tailEnglish name for Trametes versicolor

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U

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13 entries

UmamiFifth intense taste in mushrooms due to free glutamic acid; shiitake is rich in it

Relative humidityCrucial parameter in fungiculture; 85-95% during fruiting

MonocultureCultivation of a single fungal species; contrasted with polyculture

UstilaginalesOrder of smuts; parasites that transform host tissues into black spore masses

Ustilago maydisCorn smut; produces edible galls (huitlacoche) in Mexico

UbiquitousFungus present in all or almost all terrestrial environments; Cladosporium, Aspergillus

Ultraviolet (lamp)UV light used to highlight diagnostic fluorescence in certain fungi and lichens

UncinulaOld name for Erysiphe; causes powdery mildew on vines and hardwoods

Unitunicate (ascus)Ascus with a single wall; contrasted with bitunicate with a double wall

UredineAlternative term for rusts (Pucciniales); plant parasites

UredosporeSpore of rusts produced during the uredinial stage; dispersed by wind

Urea (N source)Nitrogen compound added to substrates as a nutrient source for mycelium

Ustilago hordeiCovered smut of barley; parasite that destroys the cereal spike

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V

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23 entries

Genetic variabilityDiversity of genetic heritage ensured by sexual reproduction in fungi

Universal veilMembrane that envelops the immature fruiting body; remnants = volva + warts

Partial veilMembrane that protects young gills; remnants form the ring on the stem

VermiculiteExpanded mineral for maintaining moisture in cultivation containers

Vesicle (mycorrhiza)Lipid storage structure in arbuscular mycorrhizae inside root cells

PuffballGlobose Gasteromycete (Lycoperdon, Calvatia); edible when young with white gleba

BruisingColor change of flesh or latex when cut; diagnostic character

Vitamin D2Ergocalciferol produced from fungal ergosterol exposed to UV light

VolvaSac-like membranous remnant at the base of the stem; present in Amanita and Volvariella

Volvariella volvaceaPaddy straw mushroom; cultivated in tropical Asia on rice straw

VancomycinNon-fungal antibiotic added to culture media to select fungi against bacteria

VAM (vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhiza)Old term for arbuscular mycorrhiza; now abbreviated AM

Intraspecific variabilityMorphological and genetic differences between individuals of the same fungal species

Vascular streak diebackDisease caused by Ceratobasidium causing wilting in tropical plants (cocoa)

VelvetySoft, pubescent appearance; typical of the stem of Flammulina velutipes

Veining (of the truffle)Internal network of the truffle gleba; pattern and color are diagnostic

VerpaGenus of Ascomycetes with a bell-shaped cap free from the stem; similar to morels

Verpa bohemicaEarly morel; edible with caution, with cap attached to the stem only at the top

VerrucoseWarty spore ornamentation; character of many Russula and Lactarius

VerticilliumPhytopathogenic genus causing verticillium wilt; obstructs xylem vessels

Swim bladderAbsent in fungi; anatomical term sometimes confused with mycorrhizal vesicle

Viticulture (fungi in)Role of fungi in viticulture: pathogens (botrytis, powdery mildew), beneficial (noble rot)

Volvariella bombycinaSilky sheath; large white silky fungus with volva on dead hardwood

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W

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8 entries

White rotDigestion of cellulose and lignin leaving wood pale and fibrous

Wood earEnglish name for Auricularia auricula-judae; ear-shaped gelatinous fungus

Wood Wide WebUnderground mycorrhizal network connecting trees, transferring nutrients and signals

Wasson, R. GordonEthnobotanist who documented the ritual use of Psilocybe in Mexico (1957)

White nose syndromeBat disease caused by Pseudogymnoascus destructans; devastates colonies

Witch's butterTremella mesenterica; yellow gelatinous fungus on dead wood, parasitic on Peniophora

Witches' broomAbnormal branch proliferation caused by fungi (Taphrina) on trees

Wort agarBeer wort-based medium for cultivating yeasts in the laboratory

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X

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10 entries

XerocomusGenus of small boletes with dry, velvety cap; modest edibles

XerophilicFungus adapted to low humidity; some molds contaminate dry foods

XylariaGenus of black, club-shaped Ascomycetes on dead wood; X. polymorpha = dead man's fingers

Xylaria polymorphaDead man's fingers; black finger-like fungus on hardwood stumps

XylosePentose sugar from wood hemicellulose, fermentable by some yeasts

XanthoconiumGenus of tropical boletes with yellow pores; rare in temperate regions

XanthoriaGenus of yellow-orange foliose lichens growing on bark and walls

XenobioticSubstance foreign to the organism; fungi degrade many environmental xenobiotics

XerulaGenus with a very long rooting stem; X. radicata grows on buried roots

Xerula radicataRooting shank; fungus with a deeply rooted stem penetrating the soil to the roots

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Y

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2 entries

Yarrowia lipolyticaIndustrial yeast for producing lipids, citric acid, and recombinant proteins

Yeast extractNutrient ingredient for microbiological culture media

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Z

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13 entries

ZygomycetesDivision with sexual zygospores; Mucor and Rhizopus molds, now reclassified

ZygosporeThick-walled sexual spore from gametangial fusion; resistance to adverse conditions

Zone of inhibitionArea with no growth around an antibiotic-producing fungal colony; plate test

ZonationConcentric color bands on the cap of polypores (Trametes versicolor)

ZoosporeMobile flagellated spore in water; typical of Chytridiomycetes and Oomycetes

ZygomycosisSevere infection by Mucor or Rhizopus in immunocompromised patients; rhinocerebral

ZearalenoneEstrogenic mycotoxin produced by Fusarium on corn; endocrine disruptor

ZeolitePorous mineral used as an additive in cultivation substrates for pH and drainage

ZymogramElectrophoretic profile of fungal enzymes used for strain characterization

Zinc (in the fungus)Essential microelement for fungal enzymes; some species bioaccumulate it

Altitudinal zonationDistribution of fungal species along altitudinal gradients in mountains

ZygomycosisInvasive infection by Mucorales

ZygosaccharomycesGenus of osmophilic yeasts that contaminate high-sugar foods

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