As the mushroom season in southern European countries is just around the corner , we are excited to announce that we have just launched a new FunDive sampling campaign! This time, we are focusing on fir-associated Hygrophorus species! 

The Hygrophorus genus belongs to the order Agaricales. Representatives belonging to the genus are characterized by distinctive morphological features, including a smooth to viscid pileus in various colors, waxy gills that are generally adnate, decurrent, or slightly so, and a consistently white spore mass.

Hygrophorus species are diverse ectomycorrhizal fungi that form symbiotic associations with trees, primarily from the families Betulaceae, Fagaceae, and Pinaceae, in various forest ecosystems.

Importantly, some species specifically associate with Abies spp., including circum-Mediterranean fir species (e.g., Abies alba, Abies cephalonica, and Abies pinsapo). The most well-known Hygrophorus spp. associated with Abies spp. are Hygrophorus marzuolus, Hygrophorus abieticola, Hygrophorus camarophyllus, and Hygrophorus capreolarius.

Why do we want to specifically focus on the fir-associated Hygrophorus? Given the rarity of these species, their limited habitats, and the lack of detailed distribution data, increasing information about them could play a significant role in their better protection. As H. marzuolus is nationally red-listed in several European countries, preserving the species together with its habitats is essential for protecting European biodiversity.

Interestingly, since our sampling starts as early as spring —an unusual season for fungal fructification— our collected observations can significantly enhance our understanding of the distribution of fir-associated Hygrophorus species in Europe!

Read more about Hygrophorus spp. associated with firs in a dedicated booklet!

We look forward to receiving your specimens! If you have questions beyond the information provided on our website, please reach out to the national point of contact.