Tales and mysteries of fungal fruiting: How morphological and physiological traits affect a pileate lifestyle

Mushroom-forming fungi exhibit a tremendous variety of morphological, physiological and behavioural traits. Though science had taken up the challenge to relate these traits to functions in the 20th century, such deliberations became much rarer in recent decades. In the review presented here we aim at reviving this research area, particularly in regard to ecological implications. We have therefore compiled fruit body traits with their evidenced or suggested functions. Some traits have no immediate functional meaning, but many are suggestive of some ecological importance. Many traits serve more than one function, and traits interact in the sense of trade-offs, patterns that reflect the economy of fungal design. In conclusion, the review comes up with well and little-known mushroom properties, and the numerous gaps in attributing traits to functions.