Gills of red waxcap (Hygrocybe) mushrooms in Lick Creek ...

The image presents a detailed view of the gills of red waxcap (Hygrocybe) mushrooms, showcasing their intricate structure and vibrant coloration.

* **Mushroom Caps**
   + The caps are round to bell-shaped with slightly wavy edges.
   + They have a bright red to orange-red color on top and white underneath.
   + The cap diameter ranges from 0.5 to 2.3 inches (1.3 to 5.8 cm).
* **Gills**
   + The gills are crowded, free, and adnate at the stem base.
   + They have a pale yellow color with a white edge.
   + The gill spacing is relatively wide, approximately 0.4 to 1 inch (1 to 2.5 cm) apart.
* **Stem**
   + The stem is slender, cylindrical, and slightly tapering towards the base.
   + It has a white or light brown color with a smooth surface.
   + The stem length ranges from 0.8 to 3 inches (2 to 7.6 cm).
* **Spore Print**
   + The spore print is pale yellow to cream-colored.
* **Habitat and Distribution**
   + Red waxcaps are commonly found in grasslands, meadows, and woodlands throughout Europe, North America, and other parts of the world.
   + They typically grow on the ground or on decaying plant material.

In summary, the image provides a detailed look at the distinctive features of red waxcap mushrooms, including their bright red to orange-red caps, pale yellow gills with white edges, slender stems, and pale yellow to cream-colored spore prints. – AI vision