inky cap
/'iɳki'kæp/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- A type of mushroom with a distinctive cap that dissolves into an inky black liquid as it matures: An "inky cap" is a common name for fungi, primarily in the genus Coprinus or Coprinopsis, known for the autodigestion (deliquescence) of their gills and cap into a dark, ink-like fluid after spore dispersal.
Examples of Usage
- Noun:
- We found several inky caps growing on the old tree stump.
- The inky cap is fascinating to watch as its cap liquefies into a black "ink".
- Be careful when identifying mushrooms; some inky caps are edible only if no alcohol is consumed.
Advanced Usage
- "Inky cap phenomenon": Refers specifically to the process of deliquescence, where the mushroom's tissues break down into a liquid.
- The biology class observed the inky cap phenomenon over 48 hours.
- Used in scientific and mycological contexts to describe this specific morphological characteristic.
Variants and Related Words
- Coprinoid mushrooms (n): The scientific grouping that includes inky caps and their relatives, all sharing the trait of deliquescence.
- Shaggy mane (n): A common name for , a specific, often edible, type of inky cap recognized by its tall, shaggy, white cap.
- Tippler's bane (n): A colloquial name for the common inky cap (), which can cause illness if consumed with alcohol.
Synonyms
- Coprinus (n): The former genus name, often still used colloquially.
- Ink cap (n): An alternative, equally common spelling and term.
Related Phrases / Compound Terms
- Inky cap mushroom: The full common name, often used for clarity.
- The guide pointed out an inky cap mushroom in the damp soil.
Noun
- having a cap that melts into an inky fluid after spores have matured