Emily Johnson
Mushrooms are a collection of species belonging to the fungi kingdom. The mushroom itself is known as the fruiting body, which is the part we see in pictures and nature, and cook in meals. The stipe is the stem that supports the cap of a mushroom. It raises the cap, also known as the pileus, above the substrate to facilitate spore dispersal. The stipe is made up of two distinct tissues, with the outer tissues providing rigidity and strength, and the interior made up of more loosely arranged hyphae. The stipe can be solid or hollow, and its length and width may reflect the physical stresses endured by the pileus. For example, a mushroom in a wet forest may need a stipe that can withstand large drops of water. Stipe cracking is a common issue in the outdoor cultivation of mushrooms, with cracks appearing during elongation in low-humidity conditions.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition | A stipe is the stem that supports the cap of a mushroom. |
| Function | To elevate the mushroom cap and facilitate spore dispersal. |
| Structure | The stipe is composed of two distinct tissues with different textures and colours. The outer tissue is compact and vertically oriented, providing rigidity and strength, while the interior tissue is more loosely arranged. |
| Shape | Stipes can be tapered, ventricose, or radiating with root-like extensions. Some have a lateral stipe, arising between the centre and margin of the cap. |
| Solid or Hollow | Stipes can be solid or hollow, with some species exhibiting a combination of both characteristics. |
| Brittleness | Some stipes are strong and rigid but brittle, while others are easily breakable. |
| Length | Stipe length varies across species, with some growing up to 9-15 cm. |
| Cracking | Stipe cracking is observed in certain species, such as Stropharia rugosoannulata, and is influenced by humidity conditions. |
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What You'll Learn
- The stipe is the mushroom's stem, which supports the pileus (cap)
- Stipes evolved for spore dispersal, elevating the pileus above the substrate
- Stipes can be hollow, solid, or nearly hollow
- Stipe elongation varies in speed along its length, and is influenced by reactive oxygen species (ROS)
- Stipe cracking is a common issue in the outdoor cultivation of the wine-cap mushroom
The stipe is the mushroom's stem, which supports the pileus (cap)
The stipe is an important feature to examine when identifying wild mushrooms. Its shape, size, colour, bruising, and texture are all characteristics to consider. Some stipes are solid, while others are hollow or nearly so. The presence of rhizomorphs, or roots extending underground, is another notable feature. The length and width of a stipe can provide clues about the physical stresses endured by the mushroom, such as the weight of a heavy pileus or the impact of large raindrops.
The stipe is also susceptible to cracking, particularly in low humidity conditions. Research on the wine-cap mushroom (Stropharia rugosoannulata) has revealed that stipe cracks are primarily horizontal and typically appear between the annulus and the middle part of the stipe before the pileus opens. The frequency of stipe cracking varies depending on developmental stages and humidity levels.
Not all mushrooms possess a stipe. Certain polypores, puffballs, and earthstars lack this structure. However, the majority of gilled mushrooms do have a stipe, commonly found at the centre of the cap. The stipe plays a crucial role in spore dispersal and can exhibit varying shapes, including tapering down towards the base or having a broader middle section, described as ventricose. Some species even have a radiating stipe with root-like extensions reaching into the soil.
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Stipes evolved for spore dispersal, elevating the pileus above the substrate
The stipe, or stem, of a mushroom is a vital structure that connects the cap (pileus) to the substrate on which the mushroom is growing. One of the key functions of the stipe is to elevate the pileus, or cap, above the substrate, which is crucial for spore dispersal and the survival of the fungus. This elevation ensures that the spores produced by the mushroom are dispersed more effectively into the surrounding environment. By lifting the pileus above the ground or substrate, the stipe increases the chances of spores being carried by air currents, insects, or other vectors, thus facilitating their spread to new locations where they can germinate and establish new fungal colonies.
The evolution of stipes has played a significant role in the adaptation and success of mushrooms in their natural habitats. Over time, mushrooms have developed stipes of varying lengths, strengths, and structures, all of which contribute to efficient spore dispersal. A taller stipe, for instance, can raise the pileus higher, increasing the likelihood of spore dispersal over a wider area. Additionally, the stipe may possess unique features, such as ridges or scales, which can influence airflow around the mushroom, potentially directing spores in specific directions or creating turbulence that promotes more effective dispersal.
The stipe also contributes to the overall stability and support of the mushroom structure. It anchors the pileus firmly in place, allowing it to withstand various environmental conditions, such as wind or rain, without toppling over. This stability ensures that the pileus remains elevated, even in challenging conditions, thus maximizing the chances of successful spore dispersal. Some mushrooms have stipes that are hollow, while others are solid, and these variations can also impact the efficiency of spore dispersal, as well as the overall stability of the mushroom.
Another important aspect of stipe evolution is its ability to provide a protective barrier for the developing spores. By elevating the pileus above the substrate, the stipe creates a physical separation between the spores and potential contaminants or competitors on the substrate surface. This separation reduces the risk of other fungi or microorganisms interfering with the development and dispersal of spores. Additionally, the elevation provided by the stipe can also influence the microenvironment around the pileus, creating conditions that are more favorable for spore maturation and release.
In summary, the evolution of stipes in mushrooms has played a critical role in adapting these fungi for effective spore dispersal. By elevating the pileus above the substrate, the stipe ensures that spores are released at a height that maximizes their dispersal potential. This adaptation has contributed to the success and survival of mushrooms, allowing them to colonize new areas and disperse their genetic material over long distances. The structure and function of stipes continues to be an area of interest for mycologists, providing insights into the remarkable diversity and adaptations of these fascinating organisms.
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Stipes can be hollow, solid, or nearly hollow
The stipe, or stalk, is the stem that supports the cap, or pileus, of a mushroom. The main function of the stipe is to elevate the pileus, thereby facilitating spore dispersal. Stipes can be hollow, solid, or nearly hollow.
Some mushrooms have stipes that are solid, with no trace of hollowness. For example, Cortinarius scaurus has a stipe with differentiated tissues, but they are identifiable by their different colours. Similarly, the species of Inocybe seems to have a solid stipe of entirely uniform texture. However, careful examination with a microscope might reveal some differentiation of tissues. Such uniformity of texture is the most common situation in larger mushrooms.
On the other hand, many mushrooms have stipes that are hollow or nearly so. For instance, Entoloma sericeum, Rhodocybe hirneola, and Entoloma strictius have inner tissues that are nearly absent or represented by a few hyphae, while the outer layer is thicker and more dense. These mushrooms typically have strong, rigid, and brittle stipes. Suillus cavipes, a bolete, exhibits a different type of hollow stipe, with less development of the outer tissues. The species name "cavipes" translates to "hollow foot", reflecting this characteristic.
Some mushrooms possess stipes that are almost hollow. Coprinopsis atramentaria, for instance, has an outer and inner layer of tissues, but the centre of the stipe is entirely hollow. This type of stipe is exceptionally strong, enabling clusters of mushrooms to push through dense earth or even asphalt.
The structure of the stipe, whether hollow, solid, or in between, is an important feature in identifying wild mushrooms. It also provides clues about the mushroom's response to physical stresses, such as supporting the weight of a heavy pileus or withstanding the shock of large raindrops.
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Stipe elongation varies in speed along its length, and is influenced by reactive oxygen species (ROS)
The stipe is the stem that supports the cap, or pileus, of a mushroom. The stipe evolved to raise the pileus above the ground so that wind currents and animals could pick up spores more easily. Stipe elongation varies in speed along its length, with the rate of elongation decreasing in a gradient from the top to the base.
The molecular mechanisms underlying stipe gradient elongation are not yet fully understood. However, research on the model basidiomycete mushroom *Flammulina filiformis* has shed some light on the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in this process. ROS are highly reactive chemical molecules derived from the ability of the O2 molecule to accept electrons. They are formed as a natural by-product of cellular aerobic metabolism, particularly through mitochondrial respiration. In addition to mitochondria, ROS are produced by enzymes such as NADPH oxidases (NOXs), xanthine oxidase, nitric oxide synthase, and peroxisomal constituents. They are also produced by ionizing and UV radiation, as well as by the metabolism of certain drugs and xenobiotics.
In the context of stipe elongation in *F. filiformis*, ROS redistribution mediated by NADPH oxidase and manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) is linked to gradient elongation. NADPH-oxidase-encoding genes are up-regulated in the elongation region (ER), where they produce O2− and positively regulate stipe elongation. On the other hand, genes encoding MnSOD are up-regulated in the stable region (SR), where they produce H2O2 and negatively regulate stipe elongation.
The findings in *F. filiformis* suggest a conserved function of ROS in regulating cell states during development across the animal, plant, and fungal kingdoms. For example, in maize (*Zea mays*), O2− serves as a precursor for hydroxyl radical (•OH), which loosens cell walls and facilitates cell elongation.
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Stipe cracking is a common issue in the outdoor cultivation of the wine-cap mushroom
The wine-cap mushroom is well-renowned for its edible qualities and nutritional properties. However, the issue of stipe cracking during outdoor cultivation has been a challenge for producers. Research has shown that stipe cracking in S. rugosoannulata is influenced by humidity conditions and developmental stages. Specifically, the stipe cracks are typically horizontal and appear between the annulus and the middle part of the stipe before the pileus, or cap, opens.
During the growth of S. rugosoannulata, two distinct elongation sections can be observed in the stipe, separated by the annulus. These elongation sections coincide with the locations of the cracks, and the sequence of crack occurrences matches the sequence of these sections. The frequency of stipe cracking varies across developmental stages, with the S3 developmental stage, or the mid-elongating stage, presenting the highest risk of cracking.
In regions like Guangdong Province in South China, outdoor cultivation often occurs during the winter months, from December to March. This period experiences lower rainfall, resulting in a drier environment that contributes to stipe cracking. To mitigate this issue, proper humidity management is essential. By cultivating S. rugosoannulata during spring and autumn in regions outside Guangdong, producers can take advantage of higher rainfall and more favorable humidity conditions for mushroom growth.
Understanding the relationship between humidity, developmental stages, and stipe cracking is crucial for optimizing the cultivation of the wine-cap mushroom. By managing humidity conditions and closely monitoring the mushroom's growth stages, producers can reduce the occurrence of stipe cracking and improve the quality and commercial value of their crop.
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Frequently asked questions
A mushroom stipe is the stem that supports the cap of a mushroom. It is also known as the stalk.
The main function of a mushroom stipe is to elevate the cap, so that it is in a suitable position for dispersing spores.
The outer tissues of mushroom stipes are made of compactly arranged and vertically oriented hyphae, which give the stipe rigidity and strength. The interior is made of more loosely arranged, but still vertically oriented, hyphae.
