Lactarius bertillonii

Foto © Marco Floriani - Maso Postel (Pergine Valsugana, TN), VIII.1996

Lactarius bertillonii

(Neuhoff ex Z. Schaef.) Bon

Lactarius, section Albati comprehends a number of species charcaterized by the white colours in every part of the carpophores; none of them is considered to be edible, even if in some countries (Finland in particular) they are eaten after being parboiled. Among the white Lactarii, the species illustrated here is recognized by the rather distant gills and by the strongly acrid, burning milk. A good method to confirm the identity of this species is the following simple chemical test: the white latex turns orange yellow with a solution of KOH 20-30%. This reaction is negative in Lactarius vellereus, its closest ally, which however has an almost mild latex. (m.f.)