Calopus

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Calopus: /ˈkal.o.pus/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Summary

Caloboletus calopus is a fungus characterized by its distinctive red stipe, yellow pores, and blue-staining flesh. It is part of the Boletaceae family and is widely distributed in various regions but considered inedible due to its intense bitterness.

Physical Characteristics

Cap beige to olive, 7-20 cm in diameter; yellow pores, red stipe with straw-colored network, 7–15 cm long.

Identification Tips

Distinctive coloration with red stipe and blue staining flesh when bruised; stipe exhibits reticulation near the top.

Habitat

Grows in coniferous and deciduous woodland, often at higher altitudes, particularly under beech and oak.

Distribution

Holarctic distribution; found from Northern Europe to North America's Pacific Northwest and Michigan, extending south to Mexico.

Diet

Ectomycorrhizal, partnering with various tree species for nutrient exchange.

Life Cycle

Fruiting bodies appear from July to December, often in large groups or singly.

Reproduction

Reproduces via spores; fruiting bodies develop in suitable substrates during moisture conditions.

Ecosystem Role

As a mycorrhizal fungus, contributes to nutrient cycling and symbiotic relationships with trees.

Economic Impact

Not typically considered edible due to its intense bitterness, with rare reports of consumption in Eastern Europe.

Health Concerns

Bitter taste renders it inedible; reports of severe sickness associated with the frustosus variety.

Collecting Methods

• Foraging in deciduous and coniferous woodlands during summer and autumn.

Evolution

Originally classified in the genus Boletus; transferred to the genus Caloboletus in 2014 based on genetic analysis.

Similar Taxa

• Suillellus luridus
• Rubroboletus satanas
• Xerocomellus chrysenteron
• Caloboletus radicans

Misconceptions

Often confused with edible boletes due to its attractive appearance; the bitter taste is a significant identifying trait.

Tags

• Fungi
• Mushroom
• Caloboletus calopus
• Mycology
• Inedible Mushroom