Definition

Noun 1. A taxonomic classification in mycology: "Genus Cortinarius" is the scientific name for the largest genus of agaric mushrooms (order Agaricales). Members of this genus are characterized by having rusty brown spores and a distinctive, often cobweb-like, partial veil called a cortina when young.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Genus Cortinarius contains many species that are difficult to identify without microscopic examination.
  • Mycologists study the ecology of Genus Cortinarius due to its symbiotic relationship with trees.
  • The mushroom guide noted that the specimen likely belonged to Genus Cortinarius because of its rusty spore print.

Advanced Usage

• In scientific literature: The name is often abbreviated on second reference as "" (italicized) when discussing the genus as a whole.
  • The study focused on the phylogeny of European Cortinarius.
• Referring to a specific species: The genus name is combined with a species epithet to form a binomial name.
  • Cortinarius violaceus is a well-known species within the genus.

Variants and Related Words

• Cortinarius (n): The abbreviated, common form used to refer to the genus or its members.
  • Many Cortinarius mushrooms form mycorrhizal associations with conifers.
• Cortina (n): The cobwebby partial veil characteristic of this genus, from which the genus name is derived.
  • The presence of a cortina is a key identifying feature for young specimens.

Synonyms

• Webcap: The common English name for mushrooms in this genus, referring to the cobweb-like cortina.
  • Be cautious, as some webcaps (Cortinarius species) are highly poisonous.

Notes on Meaning

This term is highly specialized and used almost exclusively in scientific, mycological, or advanced foraging contexts. It refers specifically to a formal taxonomic rank (genus) within biological classification. The defining features (rusty spores, cortina) are critical for its identification and distinguish it from other agaric genera.

Noun

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