Lycoperdon

Lycoperdon is a genus of fungi in the family Agaricaceae, commonly referred to as puffballs. Members of this genus produce spherical to pear-shaped fruit bodies that range from a few centimeters to several centimeters in diameter. The outer covering, or peridium, is variable in texture, commonly smooth, warty, or spiny. Inside, the gleba is initially white and firm, turning olive-brown as spores mature. When mature, spores are disseminated through a vent at the apex or a fissure that opens under mechanical pressure or rainfall, producing the characteristic puff of spores.

Ecology and distribution: Lycoperdon species are saprotrophic, growing on soil, leaf litter, or decaying wood, often in grassy areas, meadows, and woodlands. They are cosmopolitan, with greatest diversity in temperate regions.

Notable species: Lycoperdon perlatum (common puffball) has a warty outer surface; Lycoperdon pyriforme (pear-shaped puffball) commonly grows on decaying wood; Lycoperdon echinatum (spiny puffball) bears spines in its early stage.

Taxonomy and identification: The genus has historically included many species now placed in other genera; modern taxonomy relies on microscopic features and genetic data. Caution is advised in edibility: some young Lycoperdon fruit bodies are consumed in various cuisines, but identification is essential, as older specimens are inedible and some puffball-like fungi are toxic.

See also: puffball fungi.