Galerina

Galerina is a genus of small to medium brown mushrooms in the family Cortinariaceae. It contains roughly 60 to 100 described species worldwide, with most fruiting on decaying wood, moss, or leaf litter in woodland habitats. Members of the genus are generally inconspicuous and can be overlooked by foragers.

Description and identification are variable, but most Galerina species are small, with brown to tan caps 1–3 cm across that are often bell- or convex-shaped. The cap surface is typically dry and smooth, sometimes slightly scaly. Gills are adnate to decurrent; the stem is slender, the same color as the cap, and usually lacks a ring. Young specimens may show traces of a veil. A brown spore print is common. Because of their small size and muted coloring, accurate identification requires careful observation and, ideally, expert advice.

Ecology and distribution: Galerina species are saprotrophic, growing on rotting wood, stumps, moss, and leaf litter in forests. They are distributed globally, with fruiting often occurring in autumn in temperate regions.

Toxicity: Several Galerina species are poisonous. The best known is Galerina marginata, commonly called the deadly galerina or funeral bell, which contains amatoxins capable of causing severe liver and kidney damage. Some authorities treat Galerina autumnalis as a separate species, but it is often considered part of the G. marginata complex. Ingestion can be life-threatening; there is no universally reliable antidote, and management focuses on supportive care and early medical attention.

Caution: Because they resemble edible brown mushrooms, positive identification is challenging. Do not consume Galerina species, especially those growing on wood or moss in forest habitats.