How to recognize Russula mushrooms + mycorrhizal mushrooms explained

In this video, I explore the features of Russula mushrooms using a pair of rosy-stemmed specimens I found, then discuss the mechanics of symbiotic relationships between mushrooms and trees. Since the Russula genus contains around 750 species, identifying them - especially red, purple, and pink Russulas - is particularly tricky. However, they're so common and distinct, anyone who hunts mushrooms is likely to run into the genus regularly, including a few delightful edible green Russulas (Russula crustosa group and Russula parvovirescens in particular). Even though red and pink Russulas abound and it's nearly impossible to ID them to specific species, Russulas are interesting because they have a mycorrhizal lifestyle, meaning they form a mutually beneficial relationship with a tree or plant partner. Watch this video to learn more about ectomycorrhizae, endomycorrhizae, Russula cornhole, and mushroom-tree-ghost pipe thruples.    • How to recognize Russula mushrooms + mycor...