Invasive mushroom species Aureoboletus projectellus found in Slovakia

The invasive mushroom species Aureoboletus projectellus has been identified in a pine forest near Lemešany in the Prešov district of Slovakia. Originally from North America, the species was likely introduced to Europe via pine seedlings used for dune stabilization in the Baltic region.

Botanist Marek Žiačik from the State Nature Conservancy of the Slovak Republic notes that while the mushroom is considered an excellent edible species, it is an invasive threat. It forms mycorrhiza with native Scots pine and grows primarily on dry, sandy soils. Due to its ability to compete with native species and adapt to unfavorable conditions, experts expect the frequency of sightings to increase.

In addition to Slovakia, the species is currently documented in the Baltic states, Scandinavia, Poland, Germany, Belarus, and Ukraine. Following recent finds in the Lusatian Mountains in the Czech Republic, experts suggest further occurrences may be found in the Záhorie region of Slovakia.