The velvet shield mushroom (Pluteus umbrosus) has only been found in around 20 instances, and this is the first one in the Latgale region.
The mushroom was found by LVM employee Gaidis Grandāns while doing routine inspections.
The velvet shield mushroom is on the list of specially protected species in Latvia. It is a late summer and autumn mushroom that likes rotting wood debris. It does not have a distinct taste or smell and usually grows solitary or in small groups. It is reported to be edible but since it is so rare, it is doubtful many have actually relied on it as a food source.
Photo: Latvijas Valsts meži
