Geosmin, a sesquiterpenoid compound responsible for the musty-earthy odor of Cortinarius herculeus, Cystoderma amianthinum, and Cy. carcharias

International audienceThe fruiting bodies of 3 fresh wild mushrooms species were investigated for odorous volatile compounds by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis using both headspace concentration and solvent extraction techniques. The mushrooms species studied, Cortinarius herculeus, Cystoderma amianthinum and Cy. carcharias, are well-known to possess musty-earthy odors. Geosmin, a sesquiterpenoid derivative, was identified as the key compound responsible for the musty-earthy aroma of these Basidiomycota