Portal:Fungi/Selected species/27

Geastrum pectinatum is an inedible species of mushroom belonging to the earthstar family of fungi. Although young specimens are spherical, fruiting body development involves the outer layer of tissue splitting open like a star into 7 to 10 pointed rays that eventually bend back to point downward, revealing a small – 1 to 2.5 cm (0.4 to 1.0 in) broad – spore sac supported by a small stalk. It is commonly known as the beaked earthstar or the beret earthstar, in reference to the shape of the spore sac and its prominent, protruding peristome. Although uncommon, this species has a cosmopolitan distribution, and has been collected in various locations in Europe, North and South America, Asia and Africa. Like several other earthstars, crystals of calcium oxalate are found on G. pectinatum, and are thought to be involved in fruiting body maturation.