Common ink cap

Coprinopsis atramentaria

A species of Coprinopsis. Also known as Common inkcap, Tippler's bane.

The Coprinopsis atramentaria, commonly known as the common ink cap, frequently emerges in clusters from subterranean timber or decaying tree stumps. Their remarkable vigor is such that they are capable of displacing pavement or puncturing asphalt. Over time, their lamellae will darken and dissolve into a fluid, yielding the characteristic inky liquid from which they derive their name.

Attributes of Common ink cap

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Cap Diameter
3 - 10 cm
Height
10 - 20 cm
Cap
Cap 3 - 10 cm across; conical; pale gray, brownish; surface smooth, with scales
Cap Shape
Bell-shaped
Cap Surfaces
Fibrillose-scaly, Visible lines or stripes
Gills
Attached, free; close, crowded; whitish to pinkish, black
Gill Attachment
Free
Stem
Stem 8 - 15 cm long, 6 - 12 mm thick; white; surface smooth or finely hairy; fibrous
Stem Shapes
Cylindrical
Stem Surfaces
Smooth to slightly fibrous
Flesh
Thin; soft; white to pale gray
Ring
With Ring
Spore Print Color
Black
Odor
Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.
Body Color
BrownGrayWhite
Flesh Bruises
The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.
Growth Form
Solitary, Gregarious
Nutrient Gathering
Saprophytic
Substrate
On soil, Dead Woods
You can find Common ink cap by these plants
Populus, Willows
Occurence Habitats
Deciduous Woodland, Meadows, Mixed Woodland
Species Status
Widely distributed
Endangered Species
No

Scientific Classification of Common ink cap

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Phylum
Club fungi
Class
Mushroom-forming fungi
Order
Gilled fungi
Family
Coprinaceae
Genus
Coprinopsis
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Toxicity and Edibility of Common ink cap

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Is Common ink cap Toxic?

The Coprinopsis atramentaria, commonly known as the common ink cap, prefers damp environments and is frequently encountered in spring and autumn. Ingesting this mushroom can trigger a range of health problems, including trembling, reddening of the skin, decreased blood pressure, and even feelings of unease. Its distinctive ink-secreting gills often cause it to be mistaken for edible species. Errors in identification and subsequent consumption can result in significant distress.

Toxins type
Coprine
Type of poisoning
Gastrointestinal
Toxic Severity
Conditional toxicity (with alcohol)
Incubation Period
0.5-4 hours
Poisoning Symptoms
Individuals may experience a range of symptoms: Inhibited ethanol breakdown, tremors, cramps, heightened sensitivity, skin flushing, low blood pressure, hot flashes, palpitations, sweating, nausea, headache, dizziness, vomiting, general discomfort, vision issues, panic, anxiety, difficulty breathing, loss of coordination, and rarely, coma.

Is Common ink cap Toxic to Dogs?

Common ink cap can be dangerous to dogs. If your pet has consumed this mushroom, seek immediate veterinary attention. Symptoms may vary, but early intervention is crucial for the best outcome.

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