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MORE BOLETES

In contrast to the species classified as Boletus and Leccinum, several boletes have been assigned to a third genus, Suillus. All the species of this genus are found as mycorrhizal associates of coniferous trees. Many also have a ring on the stipe, whereas rings are absent from Boletus and Leccinum spp. The images below show two mycorrhizal species that are highly specific in their association with trees - Suillus luteus (commonly known as "Slippery Jack") which is a very common mycorrhizal associate of pine trees (Pinus spp.) and Suillus grevillei (the "Larch bolete") which is always associated with larches (Larix spp.). Both of these fungi are edible.

Suillus luteus, commonly found as a mycorrhizal associate of conifers, especially Scots pine. The cap of this fruitbody ranges from 5 to 10 cm diameter, and is initially covered with a brown, glutenous slime. The cap dries to a rusty brown colour; the underside is yellow. [© Jim Deacon]

Suillus luteus, seen from the underside, showing the conspicuous ring on the stipe. [© Jim Deacon]

Suillus grevillei, the larch bolete, has a yellow-brown cap up to 10 cm diameter and a conspicuous ring on the stipe. The cap is covered with a viscous gluten. [© Jim Deacon]

A highly magnified part of the underside of the cap of Suillus grevillei, showing the angular shape of the pores. [© Jim Deacon]

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