Cinnabar Webcap
Cortinarius cinnabarinus
Photo: iNaturalist: (c) Federico Calledda, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC), uploaded by Federico Calledda
Overview
The Cinnabar Webcap is a distinctive mushroom species characterized by its striking bright red to cinnabar-colored cap and stem, belonging to the large Cortinarius genus known for their cobweb-like partial veils. This mycorrhizal fungus forms essential symbiotic relationships with tree roots, facilitating nutrient exchange and playing a crucial role in forest ecosystem health and soil chemistry.
The Cinnabar Webcap faces significant threats from habitat loss due to deforestation and forest fragmentation, which destroys the specific mycorrhizal relationships this fungus requires with its host trees. Climate change poses additional risks by altering temperature and moisture regimes that are critical for fruiting body development and spore dispersal. Pollution and soil contamination from agricultural runoff and industrial activities further degrade the forest ecosystems where this species occurs.
Habitat
Deciduous and mixed forests, particularly beech and oak woodlands, where it forms mycorrhizal associations with broadleaf trees. Typically found in mature forest soils with rich organic matter and stable moisture conditions.
Other threatened species in Cortinariaceae
Frequently asked questions
Why is Cinnabar Webcap classified as Vulnerable?
Where does Cinnabar Webcap live?
What are the main threats to Cinnabar Webcap?
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