Boletus luridus is a type of mushroom with a distinct reddish-brown cap and yellow pores. The spelling of this word in IPA phonetic transcription is /bɒˈliːtəs ˈljʊərɪdʌs/. The "o" in "Boletus" is pronounced as "oh," while the "e" is pronounced as "ee." In "Luridus," the "u" is pronounced as "yoo," and the "i" is pronounced as "ih." The phonetic transcription helps to demonstrate how the word is pronounced and how it should be spelled correctly.
Boletus luridus, commonly known as the lurid bolete, is a medium-sized to large mushroom belonging to the family Boletaceae. It is characterized by a distinctively colored cap, stem, and pores that make it easily recognizable.
The cap of Boletus luridus typically ranges from 5 to 20 centimeters in diameter, and is initially convex before becoming flat or slightly depressed with age. The color of the cap can vary, but it is generally a vibrant reddish-brown, occasionally exhibiting greenish or purplish tints. This mushroom's stem is cylindrical, often tapering slightly towards the base, and can reach lengths of up to 15 centimeters. It shares the same coloration as the cap, with a somewhat velvety texture.
One of the key distinguishing features of Boletus luridus is its pores. Located underneath the cap, these pores are initially yellow before turning greenish and, eventually, a distinctive shade of blue when bruised. This color change serves as a useful identification characteristic for this species. Unlike many other Boletes, this mushroom does not feature tubes terminating in a stalk-like structure.
Boletus luridus is typically found from summer to autumn in deciduous and coniferous forests across Europe, particularly in association with broad-leaved trees such as beech and oak. It forms mutually beneficial mycorrhizal relationships with these trees, providing them with nutrients and receiving carbohydrates in return. Although edible, this mushroom is generally not recommended for consumption due to its potential toxicity.
In summary, Boletus luridus is a distinctive mushroom with a reddish-brown cap, stem, and pores that develop blue bruising. It forms mycorrhizal associations
The word "Boletus" is derived from the Greek word "bōlētos" meaning "mushroom" or "to be filled with something". It was originally coined by the ancient Greek philosopher and botanist Theophrastus in his work "Enquiry into Plants" (Historia Plantarum). The specific epithet "luridus" comes from the Latin word "luridus", which means "pale yellow" or "pale and sickly". This was likely chosen to describe the coloration of the cap of the mushroom, which can be dull yellow or pale brown. Therefore, "Boletus luridus" can be translated as the "pale yellow mushroom".