Glaucodiscus

Glaucodiscus is a genus of fungi belonging to the family Cortinariaceae. This genus was first described in 1992 by mycologists Jacob, Moser, and Horak. The type species is Glaucodiscus aphanoporus.

Species within Glaucodiscus are characterized by their small to medium-sized basidiocarps. The caps are typically convex to campanulate, often with a finely granular or pruinose surface. Their color can range from grayish to bluish-gray, hence the genus name "Glauco-" referring to glaucous or bluish-gray. The gills are adnate to decurrent and are usually concolorous with the cap or slightly paler. The stipe is often slender and may exhibit some pruinosity or fine scales, also in shades of gray or bluish-gray. Microscopic features, such as spore shape, size, and ornamentation, are crucial for species identification within this genus.

Glaucodiscus species are found in various habitats, often associated with mossy areas or in coniferous forests. Their ecological role is generally that of saprotrophs, contributing to the decomposition of organic matter. Distribution is primarily in temperate regions. Research into the phylogenetic placement of Glaucodiscus has placed it within the Cortinariaceae family, indicating a relationship with other genera such as Cortinarius and Inocybe, though it is considered a distinct lineage. Further research is ongoing to fully understand the diversity and evolutionary history of this genus.