cyanogaster

Cyanogaster is a genus of fungi in the family Boletaceae. These mushrooms are characterized by their distinctive blue to greenish-blue pore surfaces, which can darken or change color upon bruising. The name "cyanogaster" itself derives from the Greek words "kyanos" (blue) and "gaster" (belly), referring to this characteristic coloration.

Species within the Cyanogaster genus are typically found growing in association with coniferous trees. Their fruiting bodies, or mushrooms, generally have a cap and a stem, with a fleshy, spongy hymenium composed of pores. The exact taxonomic placement of Cyanogaster has been subject to revision as genetic studies have provided new insights into fungal phylogeny.

While some species may be edible, identification of wild mushrooms for consumption should only be undertaken by experienced mycologists due to the risk of misidentification with toxic look-alikes. Information regarding the edibility of specific Cyanogaster species is often limited and should be treated with caution. Research into the ecological roles and biochemical properties of Cyanogaster continues to expand our understanding of these blue-pored boletes.