European Mycology

††† A decorative symbol representing a dagger-like cross. The Agaricini gilled fungi (Phyllodermei leaf-skinned fungi), which constitute the largest of all divisions in this order regarding the number of species (though not of genera), are distinguished by flattened gills (lamellae) that diverge radially from the center or from the side of the cap (in which case the cap is semi-circular). The gills are mostly simple and alternatingly larger, with shorter ones always starting at the edge of the cap; in a few species, especially the leathery ones, they are forked or reticulately connected. The interstices (sinuli small grooves) between them are, however, elongated, and they differ from true tubes or pores due to their thicker partition walls. In a good number of species, the gills change color (from reddish to brown) as the fungus matures, and in some, they entirely deliquesce; it is established that such a change arises from the spores.

In this tribe, the cap is for the most part fleshy or membranous, more rarely leathery, and is furthermore entire and horizontal, almost never resupinate-effused (with the exception of a few subterranean or mining species). The stalk is usually central, more rarely eccentric or marginal; in most, it is bare, in others, it is encircled by a ring or a veil, in some it is enclosed at the base by a volva, and some (Amanitae a genus of gilled mushrooms) possess both a volva and a ring simultaneously.

These fungi are generally terrestrial and autumnal; they vary in size and color, but not in form. They grow in woods, meadows, etc., and enjoy but a short life, yet...