Discover Nature at JCU Fungi Fungi by scientific name Coprinus atramentarius

Coprinus atramentarius

Image of Coprinus atramentarius

(Inky Cap, Common Ink Cap)

FAMILY

Coprinaceae

Species

Coprinus atramentarius

Common names

Inky Cap, Common Ink Cap

Colour

Cap grayish initially

Habitat

Singly or in clusters in mulch

Description

This unusual species has caps which are initially deeply conical with a greyish upper surface. The cap then flares out and the margins split turn black and then start to roll back. The cap then proceeds to break down and auto-digest resulting in an inky liquid hence the common name. Cap 3-8 cm diameter with free gills and black spores. Stalk is whitish.