widely accepted and recognized in scientific literature and taxonomy

Lactarius deliciosus is a globally widespread edible mycorrhizal fungus. There is no evidence of population decline, and the species is listed as not threatened in several red lists. Therefore, it is assessed as Least Concern.

In Europe, the saffron milk cap (Lactarius deliciosus) is distributed from the Mediterranean region to the far north in Scandinavian countries. Further east in Asia, it can be found in the Caucasus region, Siberia, and China. In North America, it is present in most forests. Additionally, it occurs in North Africa, specifically in Morocco and Algeria. It has also been introduced to Australia and South America. The distribution pattern is continuous and shows no signs of fragmentation. See Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF).

Globally, Lactarius deliciosus is a common in suitable habitats. The global population trend is stable, and there is no indication of a decline. In Europe, the species is widespread and frequent. In Asia, the saffron milk cap is also locally common. It is found in North America and North Africa, with stable populations in these regions. According to the website of the Center for Red Lists in Germany, L. deliciosus is considered not threatened in Germany and is classified as stable both in the short and long term. In Austria, the Mycological Database provides information on stable population occurrences of L. deliciosus (Austrian Mycological Society, 2021-ongoing). Similarly, the Norwegian Red List categorizes the saffron milk cap as “least concern” (LC), with a stable population (Brandrud et al., 2021).

Lactarius deliciosus forms ectomycorrhiza with coniferous trees. Its symbiotic partners include various pine species, such as Pinus sylvestris, P. pinaster, and P. nigra. Therefore, suitable habitats for the saffron milk cap are forests where its symbiotic partners are present, such as pine forests and mixed forests with a high proportion of pines. Acidic soils are preferred.

There is no global threat to Lactarius deliciosus. It is commonly and widely found in many kinds of natural and man-made habitats.However, local threats, as with most mushroom species, include habitat loss due to intensive forestry practices and the replacement of pines with other tree species that are more economically profitable, such as spruce. Environmental pollution and soil acidification also pose challenges. Additionally, as the saffron milk cap is a popular edible mushroom, it may be at risk in some regions due to excessive harvesting pressure. However, these factors have not had any significant global impact so far. (Gminder et al., 2000, pp. 351–352).

The protection and preservation of natural pine forests are vital for the survival of the saffron milk cap (Lactarius deliciosus). Additionally, the harvesting of the mushroom should be moderate and sustainable to maintain its “least concern” status. However, no global conservation measures are currently necessary.

In regions experiencing significant habitat changes, populations should be regularly monitored. The impact of intensive harvesting on local occurrences also needs further investigation. Additionally, mapping efforts should be encouraged in areas outside of Europe and North America.

Lactarius deliciosus is an edible species, which is picked and traded locally.

just a reminder for me to fill in the references mentioned:
Mycological Society, 2021-ongoing
Brandrud et al., 2021
Gminder et al., 2000