Chroogomphus

Chroogomphus is a genus of fungi in the order Gomphales. The genus was described in 1945 by mycologist Orson K. Miller Jr. Species within Chroogomphus are commonly known as "slimecaps" due to the sticky or slimy nature of their caps, especially when moist. They are characterized by their robust, often stout fruiting bodies, with fleshy, sticky caps that are typically convex to flattened. The gills are decurrent, meaning they run down the stem.

The spore print of Chroogomphus species is usually dark brown. These fungi are typically found growing on the ground, often in association with coniferous trees. They are saprobic, meaning they obtain nutrients from dead organic matter. The genus is distributed in temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, with some species also found in parts of Asia.

The taxonomy of Chroogomphus has seen some shifts, and it was formerly placed in the Gomphidiaceae family. However, molecular phylogenetic studies have led to its placement in the Gomphales order. Some well-known species include Chroogomphus rutilus, which is widely distributed in Europe and North America, and Chroogomphus vinicolor, known for its reddish-brown coloration. While some species may be edible, identification is crucial as there are toxic look-alikes.