Appearance
The cap of "Mycena alcalina" ranges from conical to bell shaped and is generally 1–4 cm in diameter. The cap is supported by a thin, hollow stem growing anywhere from 20-65mm long. The cap appears black at first, but fades to a grey-brown colour around the edges, with the stem generally being the same colour as the cap. The flesh of "Mycena alcalina" ranges from white to translucent and is fragile and thin. This species of mushroom is edible, but it has a mild acrid taste and distinct bleach-like odour, making it unpleasant to eat.
Distribution
Its geography is fairly widespread, being found in both North America and Europe.In North America, it grows predominately on the western coast. It can be found in habitats ranging from the old growth forests of British Columbia, throughout Washington and Oregon. It can also be found in other states, including Montana, Idaho, Maryland and Virginia. It is also found throughout Europe, generally growing in densely forested areas including Britain, Finland, the Netherlands, Norway and Spain.
Habitat
"Mycena alcalina" is saprotrophic, meaning it derives nutrients from the breakdown of organic materials through use of extracellular enzymes. This particular species is found most often growing on the wood of coniferous trees. It can typically be found growing during the early summer and fall.References:
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