Volvas

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. The outer part of certain fungi, typically a membranous or sac-like structure that encases the fruiting body
2. A feature of mushrooms that may remain at the base or around the stem, helping to identify species
3. A protective covering that can assist in distinguishing types of fungi based on its shape and texture

Etymology: "Volvas" is simply the plural of "volva," the membranous sac at the base of certain mushrooms from which the stalk and cap emerge. The singular was borrowed directly from Latin, where "volva" meant a case or wrapper, the sense that gives the fungal structure its name. Its wrapping function is the whole point: the volva encloses the young fruiting body during its early growth and is left behind, sometimes as a cup or ragged sheath at the stem's base, when the mushroom breaks free.

Synonyms: mushroom cups, universal veils