FungiHighest rank in taxonomy. Groups all life into domains: Animalia, Plantae, Fungi, etc.IUCN LCInternational Union for Conservation of Nature — the world authority on species extinction risk, using standardized criteria. — Least Concern — widespread and abundant; not at immediate risk of extinction.In ProgressCurrent stage of this record in the editorial review workflow. Recent Sighting
Coprinopsis atramentaria
Inky Cap / Common Inkcap
(Bull.) Redhead, Vilgalys & Moncalvo, 2001
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
Coprinopsis atramentaria is a medium-sized basidiomycete fungus characterized by its grayish or pale brown oval bell-shaped cap. Its surface is usually smooth or finely scaly near the center. The most astonishing feature of its biology is deliquescence: upon maturity, the gills (initially white) turn black and completely dissolve into a dark liquid ink loaded with spores. The stalk is white, hollow, and firm, often with a rudimentary ring at the base. It is a saprophytic fungus that grows in dense clusters, feeding on decaying wood or buried roots. It is widely recognized for containing coprine, a substance that causes a severe toxic reaction if consumed with alcohol.
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Last modified by
Julia Trouin
TaxonomyBiological classification ranks placing this species within the tree of life, from Kingdom down to Genus.
PhylumRank below Kingdom. Groups organisms sharing a fundamental body plan (e.g., Chordata = vertebrates and some invertebrates).Basidiomycota
ClassRank below Phylum. Subdivides by structural traits (e.g., Mammalia, Aves, Reptilia, Insecta).Agaricomycetes
OrderRank below Class. Groups related families sharing common ancestry (e.g., Carnivora, Primates).Agaricales
FamilyRank below Order. Groups closely related genera (e.g., Felidae = cats, Canidae = dogs).Psathyrellaceae
GenusRank just above Species. The first word in the two-part binomial scientific name.Coprinopsis
Taxonomic AuthorityThe scientist who first formally described and published this species, followed by the year of publication.(Bull.) Redhead, Vilgalys & Moncalvo, 2001
Record Completeness
93%Coming soon
Ecology & StatusHow this species lives: habitat preferences, diet, behavior, population status, and role in its ecosystem.
OriginWhether the species is native (evolved here), endemic (found only here), or introduced by human activity.
Native
Population TrendDirection of change in population size over time: increasing, stable, decreasing, or unknown.
Stable
Trophic RolePosition in the food chain: producer, herbivore, carnivore, omnivore, decomposer, or parasite.
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EdibilityWhether this mushroom is edible, toxic, hallucinogenic, or of unknown safety. Never eat based solely on this data.
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Cap ShapeShape of the mushroom cap (pileus): convex, flat, umbonate, funnel-shaped, bell-shaped, etc.
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Hymenium TypeThe spore-bearing surface of a fungus: gills, pores, teeth, ridges, smooth, or wrinkled.
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Fruiting SeasonTime of year when this species typically reproduces or flowers.
Year Round
Recent SightingsWhether this species has been observed in the wild in Costa Rica within recent years.
Yes
Habitat SummaryOverview of the specific ecosystems and environments where this species is found in Costa Rica. Multi-lang
It inhabits a wide variety of environments, including forest edges, grasslands, urban gardens, and disturbed areas. It grows on decaying wood or buried dead roots, sometimes appearing to sprout directly from the ground. It prefers nitrogen-rich soils. In Costa Rica, it is common in disturbed areas and montane forests during the rainy season.SubstrateThe organic material or host organism this fungus colonizes and decomposes. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!BehaviourDaily activity patterns, movement, territory use, foraging style, and seasonal behavioral changes. Multi-lang
It is a fundamental organic matter recycler. Its underground mycelium degrades cellulose and lignin, preparing the soil for plant colonization. Its aerial phase is very brief, lasting only a couple of days before turning into ink.Physical Measures
Length (cm)
4.0 - 10.0 cm
Hymenium StructuresMacro photographs of the spore-bearing surfaces used for mushroom identification.
No hymenium surface images available.
Evolutionary AdaptationsInherited traits and behaviors that improve the species' survival and reproduction in its specific environment. Multi-lang
Self-digestion (Deliquescence): Unlike other fungi that rely solely on wind, this species dissolves its own gills into ink. This adaptation ensures spores disperse even in very humid environments, sticking to insect legs or being washed by rain toward new substrates.
Coprine Synthesis: It produces coprine as a secondary defense mechanism. While not lethal on its own, the metabolic interaction it generates acts as a chemical deterrent against certain herbivores.
Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Multi-lang
Agricultural chemical use: Growing frequently in pastures and gardens, it is sensitive to systemic herbicides and fungicides.
Interesting FactsSurprising or notable facts that highlight what makes this species unique or ecologically important. Multi-lang
Natural Antabuse Effect: Coprine blocks the enzyme that breaks down alcohol in the body. If someone consumes this fungus and drinks alcohol (even up to 3 days later), they will suffer tachycardia, nausea, and severe facial flushing.
Writing Ink: In the past, the black liquid resulting from the fungus's dissolution was occasionally used as writing ink, sometimes adding small amounts of cloves to prevent rotting.