Coprinus

/koʊˈpraɪnəs/ noun

Definition

A genus of small, delicate fungi commonly called inky caps, known for their ability to rapidly dissolve into a black inky liquid after releasing spores.

Etymology

From Latin copra (dung) + Greek -inus (suffix indicating relationship), though modern consensus debates whether the 'dung' etymology is accurate, as these are wood-decomposing fungi.

Kelly Says

Inky cap mushrooms literally autodigest themselves after reproducing—they're fungi that commit biological suicide to spread spores, which is equal parts morbid and brilliant from nature's perspective.

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