Calvatia fragilis has been considered a synonym of C. cyathiforme (Bosc) Morgan, but according to Bates et al (2009), Kreisel (1992, 2001) and Moreno et al. (2010) they are separate species with different distribution patterns.

The current population trends are unknown on a global scale. However the species is considered potentially extinct in the Czech republic and it is redlisted in Poland. It is dependent on the area and quality of xerothermic grasslands/steppes and woodlands. Possible threat from overgrowth (ceased grazing), overgrazing and exploitation (dry grasslands transformed into cultivated framland).  NT

Calvatia fragilis was described from Italy and has since been recorded in xerothermic regions of most continents. The geographic range is somewhat ambiguous as it has frequently been confused with C. cyathiformis and recorded as such. Kreisel (1992) summarized the distribution of C. fragilis as N. America, N. Africa, C. Asia, S. Africa, Australia and New Zealand.

 

Calvatia fragilis has a wide world distribution but is reliant on xerothermic grasslands and steppe habitats. Current trends are not known. Potential mis-identifications (with C. cyathiformis) should be considered.

Calvatia fragilis is mainly a species of open, xerothermic habitats: dry pastures, sandy steppe and halophytic steppe. It also occurs in the Mediterranean garrique vegetation as well as in light Mediterranean pine woodland.

A species of xerothermic grasslands and dry mediterranean vegetation. Overgrowth due to ceased grazing as well as exploitation of its habitat (grazed grassland being transferred to cultivated farmlands).

Red-listed as potentially extinct in the Czech republic (Holec & Beran 2006) and (as C. cyathiformis) proposed as E in Poland (Wojewoda 2003).

Reserach is needed to resolve the species limits between C. fragilis and C. cyathiformis.

none