Anspelas

Anspelas is a genus of fungi belonging to the family Inocybaceae. This genus is characterized by small to medium-sized mushrooms with a distinctive umbo or boss on the cap. The gills are typically adnexed or sinuate and can be a brownish or clay color. The spores are usually elliptical to ovate and are verrucose, meaning they have a roughened surface. Anspelas species are saprobic, meaning they derive nutrients from dead organic matter, often found in woodland environments, particularly associated with coniferous trees.

The taxonomy of Anspelas has undergone revisions, with some species formerly placed in the genus Inocybe now being classified within Anspelas. Distinguishing between species can be challenging and often requires microscopic examination of spore characteristics and cystidia. While some species may resemble common edible mushrooms, many Anspelas species are considered inedible or even poisonous due to the presence of toxic compounds like muscarine. Therefore, caution is advised, and identification should be left to experienced mycologists. Further research is ongoing to fully understand the ecological roles and phylogenetic relationships of the Anspelas genus.