Community find

Possibly a type of Parasol Mushroom (e.g., Chlorophyllum species or Macrolepiota species)

Chlorophyllum or Macrolepiota (species indeterminate from image alone)

Group

gilled mushroom

Season

Typically found from late spring through fall, depending on the specific species and region, often fruiting after periods of rain.

Habitat

Growing in grass, likely in a lawn or disturbed grassy area. Many lawn-dwelling mushrooms are saprophytic, breaking down organic material in the soil.

Key characteristics

The image shows a mushroom with a light brown to tan cap, which appears to be broadly convex to flat with age. The surface of the cap is covered with darker, flattened, somewhat fibrous scales, especially prominent in the center. The center of the cap has a distinct, darker brown umbo or raised area. The edges of the cap appear to be slightly lighter and smoother. The stem is not clearly visible but seems robust. There are signs of possible underlying gills from the side view of the bottom mushroom.

Look-alikes

Other species within Chlorophyllum and Macrolepiota genera. Distinguishing features often involve spore print color, presence and characteristics of a ring on the stem, and reaction to bruising. Other brown-capped gilled mushrooms could also be superficially similar.

Ecological role

Saprophytic, meaning it obtains nutrients from decaying organic matter. Members of the Agaricaceae family, particularly many in genera like Macrolepiota or Chlorophyllum, are often decomposers of organic material in soil, contributing to nutrient cycling.