SCLERODERMA CITRINUM Meaning and
Definition
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Scleroderma citrinum is a species of fungi commonly known as the citrine earthball or the pigskin poison puffball. It belongs to the genus Scleroderma and the family Sclerodermataceae. This species is found in various regions around the world, including North America, Europe, and Asia.
The citrine earthball has distinctive features that aid in its identification. The fruiting body, or sporocarp, is typically rounded in shape and ranges in size from 1 to 6 centimeters in diameter. When young, it is firm and white but gradually turns into a yellow or yellowish-brown color as it matures. The outer surface of the sporocarp has a leathery or tough texture, resembling a pig's skin, hence its common name.
Scleroderma citrinum is considered inedible and is categorized as poisonous. Consumption of this fungus can lead to severe gastrointestinal distress and other toxic reactions. Therefore, it is crucial to correctly identify this species and avoid its consumption.
In terms of ecology, Scleroderma citrinum is a saprophytic fungus, meaning it obtains sustenance by decomposing organic matter. It is commonly found in woodland areas, often in association with trees such as oaks or conifers. The fungus forms mycorrhizal associations with the roots of certain tree species, a mutualistic relationship where both the fungus and the plant benefit.
Overall, Scleroderma citrinum is a distinctive fungal species with notable characteristics, including its pigskin-like appearance and inedibility. It plays a role in the decomposition process and forms symbiotic partnerships with certain trees.
Common Misspellings for SCLERODERMA CITRINUM
- acleroderma citrinum
- zcleroderma citrinum
- xcleroderma citrinum
- dcleroderma citrinum
- ecleroderma citrinum
- wcleroderma citrinum
- sxleroderma citrinum
- svleroderma citrinum
- sfleroderma citrinum
- sdleroderma citrinum
- sckeroderma citrinum
- scperoderma citrinum
- scoeroderma citrinum
- sclwroderma citrinum
- sclsroderma citrinum
- scldroderma citrinum
- sclrroderma citrinum
- scl4roderma citrinum
- scl3roderma citrinum
Etymology of SCLERODERMA CITRINUM
The word "Scleroderma" originates from the Greek terms "skleros" meaning "hard" and "derma" meaning "skin". It is a combination of two Greek words that accurately describes one of the defining characteristics of this group of diseases - the thickening and hardening of the skin.
The term "Citrinum" on the other hand, is derived from the Latin word "citrinus" which means "yellowish" or "lemon-colored". It likely refers to the color of the mushroom's flesh, which is pale yellow or yellowish in some species of the Scleroderma genus.
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