Hygrophorus

The Hygrophorus genus belongs to the order Agaricales and the family Hygrophoraceae. It is predominantly found in the Holarctic and temperate zones of the Northern Hemisphere. The genus is 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. Some species specifically associate with Abies spp., including circum-Mediterranean fir species (e.g., Abies alba Mill., Abies cephalonica Loudon, Abies pinsapo Boiss.), which are mainly restricted to Southern Europe.

This project primarily focuses on Hygrophorus marzuolus (Fr.) Bres. and species associated with firs, such as Hygrophorus abieticola Krieglst. ex Gröger & Bresinsky (synonymous with Hygrophorus pudorinus s. auct. plur., non Fr.), Hygrophorus camarophyllus (Alb. & Schwein.) Dumée, Grandjean & Maire, Hygrophorus capreolarius (Kalchbr.) Sacc., and others.

You can learn more about the genus and the species of interest from our booklet.

Given the rarity of these species, their limited habitats, and the lack of detailed distribution data, their conservation could play a significant role in European biodiversity protection efforts. Since sampling will also occur in spring, an unusual season for fungal fructification, and in specific habitats, our goal is to document the diversity of potentially undiscovered species and record their presence in previously unreported areas, particularly for H. marzuolus. Furthermore, preserving both H. marzuolus and its habitats is essential, as the species is nationally red-listed in several European countries where it is found.

Hygrophorus species are a diverse group of ectomycorrhizal fungi that form symbiotic relationships with both deciduous and coniferous trees. This study aims to investigate the geographic distribution of H. marzuolus across Europe in different environmental settings.

While H. marzuolus is commonly associated with Abies (fir) species, it is not restricted to them, making it essential to explore its host preferences. This species primarily forms ectomycorrhizal associations with coniferous trees in the Pinaceae family, particularly Abies (A. alba, A. × borisii-regis) and Picea and to a lesser extent with Pinus species, including P. mugo Turra, P. mugo subsp. uncinata (Ramond ex DC.) Domin, P. nigra J.F. Arnold, and P. sylvestris L., as well as with Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco, particularly in France. Although less common, H. marzuolus has also been observed forming associations with deciduous trees such as Fagus sylvatica L., Castanea sativa Mill., and various Quercus species.

For other Hygrophorus species, the presence of Abies spp. is a key requirement when selecting study sites.

You can find additional information about sampling site selection in our booklet.

By reporting your findings, you will add to the knowledge of these species and your records will be important contributions to nature conservation.