Hebeloma

Hebeloma is a genus of mushrooms in the family Hymenogastraceae. The genus was circumscribed by Elias Magnus Fries in 1815. The name Hebeloma is derived from the Greek words "hebelos," meaning "club," and "mykes," meaning "fungus," referring to the club-shaped basidia of the species. Hebeloma species are typically found in temperate regions, growing on the ground in wooded areas, often near conifers. They are known for their distinctive, often colorful, caps and gills. The genus includes both edible and poisonous species. Some Hebeloma species are used in traditional medicine, while others are known for their potential to cause allergic reactions or even poisoning in humans. The taxonomy of Hebeloma is complex, with many species described and redescribed over the years. Some species have been transferred to other genera, such as Mycena and Pseudohydnum. Despite this, Hebeloma remains a significant genus in mycology, with ongoing research into its species and their ecological roles.