Chroogomphus

The genus Chroogomphus includes the well-known species Ch. rutilus, commonly referred to as the “Copper Spike”. This species is widely distributed across Europe. However, recent molecular studies utilizing DNA sequencing have confirmed the presence of at least eight visually similar species in Europe. While most of these species had been previously described, their morphological variability and distributions were not well understood. Species within the genus Chroogomphus are readily identifiable at the genus level. However, species-level identification remains challenging due to subtle and partially unexplored morphological characteristics that distinguish them.

The primary objective of this FunDive campaign is to enhance the understanding of the distribution and population status of European Chroogomphus species. Field observations suggest that they may have biotrophic associations with other fungi. They are often found with boletes like Suillus and Rhizopogon, which also form ectomycorrhiza with pines. The FunDive campaign aims to further investigate these associations.

All species in the genus typically grow under pine trees (Pinus spp.) and are believed to form ectomycorrhiza.

Keys to the fungi of temperate Europe (Læssøe, T., Petersen, J.H., Frøslev, T.G. & Heilmann-Clausen, J.) – Gomphidioids: http://www.mycokey.com/keys/FTE-gomphidioids.pdf