Description
Panaeolus cinctulus Spore Print | The Banded Mottlegill
Panaeolus cinctulus, commonly referred to as the Banded Mottlegill or Weed Panaeolus, is a cosmopolitan mushroom species known for its mottled gill appearance and dark spore print. It is one of the most adaptable Panaeolus species, appearing in a variety of organic-rich habitats worldwide. Due to its widespread occurrence and distinctive morphology, P. cinctulus has long been of interest to mycologists and microscopy researchers.
This species is a saprotroph, meaning it thrives on decaying organic matter, including compost, gardens, manure-rich soils, and well-fertilized lawns. It is known for its ability to fruit abundantly from spring through autumn, particularly after heavy rainfall.
⚠ Spores are intended for microscopy, taxonomy, and novelty purposes only.
Morphology & Key Features
- Cap (Pileus): Typically 1.5–5.5 cm in diameter, starting as conical to bell-shaped before maturing into a flattened convex form. The surface is smooth, hygrophanous, and ranges from reddish-brown to cinnamon brown, fading to tan or pale yellow as it dries. A distinct dark ring (band) often encircles the margin.
- Gills (Lamellae): Closely spaced, transitioning from light brown to dark mottled brown, before turning jet black at full maturity—a signature trait of the Panaeolus genus.
- Stipe (Stem): Slender and 2–10 cm long, 2–9 mm thick, typically whitish to pale brown, sometimes with reddish hues. The surface may display longitudinal white fibrils and a pruinose (powdery) texture. The stem lacks a ring.
- Spore Print: Produces jet-black spores, measuring 12 x 8 μm, with elliptical-citriform shapes under magnification.
Ecology & Habitat
- 🌎 Geographic Distribution – Found across North America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Oceania, making it a globally distributed species.
- 🌿 Preferred Habitats – Thrives in nutrient-rich environments, such as compost piles, dung-enriched soils, gardens, and well-fertilized lawns. Occasionally found growing directly from horse and cow manure.
- 📅 Fruiting Season – Typically fruits from spring through late autumn, with increased abundance after periods of rainfall.
Quality & Collection Standards
- 🌿 Ethically Collected & Preserved – Sourced from wild specimens, ensuring genetic integrity while minimizing environmental impact.
- 🔬 Prepared in Sterile Conditions – All spore prints undergo HEPA filtration and are handled with laboratory-grade sterilization protocols.
- ✅ 30-Day Quality Guarantee – Ensuring high standards for microscopy research and taxonomic study.
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