Arched Woodwax
VU

Arched Woodwax

Hygrophorus camarophyllus

Unknown

Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hygrophorus_camarophyllus

Overview

Hygrophorus camarophyllus, commonly known as the arched woodwax, smoky waxy cap, or sooty brown waxy cap, is a species of edible fungus in the genus Hygrophorus.

The Arched Woodwax faces significant threats from habitat degradation and loss of old-growth forest ecosystems where it forms essential mycorrhizal relationships with mature trees. Climate change is altering precipitation patterns and temperature regimes that are critical for this fungus's fruiting cycles and spore dispersal. Additionally, air pollution and acid deposition are compromising the delicate soil chemistry balance required for its survival.

Threat summary

Habitat

Inhabits mature coniferous and mixed forests, particularly those dominated by spruce, fir, and pine species, where it forms mycorrhizal associations with tree roots. Typically found in acidic, well-drained soils of montane and boreal forest ecosystems at elevations ranging from sea level to subalpine zones.

TERRESTRIAL· major

Other threatened species in Hygrophoraceae

Arctic Mushroom Scales LichenCR

Arctic Mushroom Scales Lichen

Lichenomphalia hudsoniana

Unknown
Dune WaxcapEN

Dune Waxcap

Hygrocybe conicoides

Unknown
Stielloser AdermooslingVU

Stielloser Adermoosling

Arrhenia lobata

Unknown
Garlic WaxcapVU

Garlic Waxcap

Hygrocybe helobia

Unknown

Frequently asked questions

Why is Arched Woodwax classified as Vulnerable?
Arched Woodwax is classified as Vulnerable because the population is declining and the species faces a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future if current pressures continue. The Arched Woodwax faces significant threats from habitat degradation and loss of old-growth forest ecosystems where it forms essential mycorrhizal relationships with mature trees. Climate change is altering precipitation patterns and temperature regimes that are critical for this fungus's fruiting cycles and spore dispersal. Additionally, air pollution and acid deposition are compromising the delicate soil chemistry balance required for its survival.
Where does Arched Woodwax live?
Arched Woodwax occurs in across multiple regions. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Arched Woodwax?
The main threats to Arched Woodwax are ai-1, ai-2, ai-3, and ai-4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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