Definition

1. Noun:
   • A genus of fungi: "Cortinarius" is the largest genus within the order Agaricales, commonly known as gilled mushrooms or agarics.
   • Distinguishing features: Fungi in this genus are characterized by having rusty brown spores and a cobweb-like partial veil called a cortina when young.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Cortinarius is a diverse and widespread genus of mushrooms found in forests.
  • Mycologists study the complex taxonomy of Cortinarius due to its many species.
  • The presence of a cortina is a key identifying feature for the genus Cortinarius.

Advanced Usage

• Scientific classification: The genus name is always italicized in scientific writing.
  • Cortinarius violaceus is a well-known species with a purple cap.
• Ecological role: Many species form mycorrhizal relationships with trees.
  • The health of the pine forest depends on mycorrhizal fungi like Cortinarius.

Variants and Related Words

• Cortina (n): The cobweb-like partial veil characteristic of young mushrooms in this genus.
  • The cortina often disappears as the mushroom matures.
• Cortinariaceae (n): The family to which the genus belongs.

Synonyms

• Webcap: A common name for mushrooms in the genus , referring to the cobweb-like veil.
• Agaric: A broader term for gilled mushrooms, which includes the genus .

Important Notes

• Caution: Many species are poisonous and should not be consumed. Accurate identification by an expert is essential.
  • Some Cortinarius species contain toxins that can cause severe kidney damage.

Noun

1. the largest genus in the Agaricales; agarics having rusty spores and prominent cortinae (cobwebby partial veils)