The Gypsy
VU

The Gypsy

Cortinarius caperatus

Unknown

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

Overview

A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.

The Gypsy mushroom faces significant decline due to widespread habitat degradation from intensive forestry practices that remove the old-growth coniferous forests it requires for mycorrhizal relationships. Acid rain and atmospheric pollution have altered soil chemistry in many of its traditional habitats, disrupting the delicate fungal networks essential for its survival. Climate change is shifting temperature and moisture patterns in boreal regions, potentially making existing habitats unsuitable for this cold-adapted species.

Threat summary

Habitat

The Gypsy inhabits mature coniferous and mixed forests, particularly those dominated by spruce, pine, and fir trees where it forms mycorrhizal associations with tree roots. It typically occurs in acidic, nutrient-poor soils of boreal and montane regions across northern Europe and North America.

TERRESTRIAL· major

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EN

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Frequently asked questions

Why is The Gypsy classified as Vulnerable?
The Gypsy 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 Gypsy mushroom faces significant decline due to widespread habitat degradation from intensive forestry practices that remove the old-growth coniferous forests it requires for mycorrhizal relationships. Acid rain and atmospheric pollution have altered soil chemistry in many of its traditional habitats, disrupting the delicate fungal networks essential for its survival. Climate change is shifting temperature and moisture patterns in boreal regions, potentially making existing habitats unsuitable for this cold-adapted species.
Where does The Gypsy live?
The Gypsy 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 The Gypsy?
The main threats to The Gypsy 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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