Fungus found at the base of a native hedge ID please

[alindsay]

Found last Sunday on its own, at the base of a native hedge (including Beech) separating arable fields in S Beds, so clay soil.

A really striking cap with the pronounced grooves and such a marvellous shape. It caught my eye immediately.

Unfortunately it fell apart in my hands before I could slice it open neatly to photo a good cross section.

Could it be a Brittlestem (Psathyrella sp)? Possibly Psathyrella microrrhiza or microrhiza (spelling depending on the reference material).









Sorry I can't provide anything technical.

[fairplay]

This would be a species of Parasola (formerly in the genus of Coprinus), but which one, I wouldn't like to say.
The gills would still be immature but as the spores mature, the gills will turn black.

Neil.

Perhaps I'm wrong - Coprinellus impatiens may be a better choise.

[Chris Yeates]

Certainly not a Parasola - the gills in that genus are free, often quite distant from the stipe apex

Chris

[SheffieldLass]

Psathyrella would be my first thought.

Melanie

[watsthat]

Hi Alindsay

I agree, an interesting cap but its probably an aberration rather than a diagnostic feature. If Neil, Chris and Melanie are "hedging" their bets, you can bet you`re not going to get a positive ID based on your pic. However; I`ll go with the majority and guess at Psathyrella sp

Cheers

Pete

[alindsay]

Thanks to all for your thoughts and I'm satisfied with Psathyrella sp