Mushrooms are a highly prized food in gastronomy, but as many of us know, not all mushrooms are safe to eat. Consuming poisonous mushrooms can cause very serious poisoning, even death. Let's take it step by step. First, we'll differentiate between mushrooms and fungi, and then we'll tell you which types of mushrooms are the most poisonous.
It is important to know how to recognize poisonous mushroom species to avoid poisonings, as we have mentioned. It is crucial not to consume mushrooms that have not been identified or whose origin is unknown. In the event of suspected poisoning, it is vital to go to the hospital.
When mushroom season begins in our country, it's common to see groups of mushroom enthusiasts in certain wooded areas collecting both fungi and mushrooms. To ensure safe and environmentally responsible harvesting, a series of regulations, which each region establishes, must be followed. We will also discuss these regulations in this post.
Difference Between Mushroom and Fungus
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A fungus is a living organism composed of two parts . The first is the mycelium , located underground, which is not edible. This mycelium is made up of a large number of tiny threads called hyphae. The second part, known as the mushroom , is the external part, the one we all see and eat.
The mushroom serves as the reproductive organ of the fungus and is the only part of the fungus that can be eaten. Therefore, when a menu in a bar or restaurant says "Scrambled Mushrooms," it's incorrect; it should say "Scrambled Mushrooms."
For the mycelium to grow, it needs a warm and humid environment to develop ; this process is known as vegetative growth. When a mushroom appears, it's because there has been a gradual drop in temperature. With this temperature decrease, the mycelium begins its reproductive growth process. Many of the mushrooms that have formed produce spores in order to form a new mycelium.
Mushroom harvesting conditions
As we mentioned at the beginning of this post, mushroom picking is subject to specific conditions to protect not only wooded areas, but also the environment and certain species. Below, we explain these conditions so you can keep them in mind.
Harvesting must be done without causing damage to the forest or woodland. It is strictly forbidden to use tools to rake the soil or damage the mycelium of the fungus. Furthermore, mushrooms of other species that are not being harvested must not be disturbed, as they have a forestry function and, in some cases, are of scientific interest.
If harvesting involves completely uprooting the mushroom, the disturbed ground must be left in the best possible condition . The hole created should be filled with the soil removed during the uprooting process.
When you want to collect mushrooms, don't forget to bring a basket or other container that allows the mushrooms to air out . The use of plastic bags, cloth bags, or any other container that prevents transpiration and the release of spores is not permitted.
The collection of unopened mushroom eggs of certain species, as well as the buying and selling of mushrooms in the mountains or forest roads , are prohibited . Littering and lighting fires are also forbidden.
When collecting mushrooms, you must carry the corresponding permit . Children under 14 are not required to have this permit. However, if they wish to participate in this activity, they must be accompanied by an adult who does have one. This permit is personal and non-transferable.
These are some of the general conditions that all communities follow so that mushroom harvesting is carried out in the best possible way.
species of poisonous mushrooms
In this section, you'll find a list of some of the most toxic mushrooms in the world. Remember not to eat mushrooms you don't recognize and to learn about the different types and their potential consequences.
Fly swatter – Amanita Muscaria
The classic red mushroom, covered in small white spots, that we've all seen in movies or children's stories. This mushroom contains a substance that can kill flies, hence its name. In humans, however, it can cause digestive problems.
Boletus Satan
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With almost 30 centimeters in diameter, light colors and thick, white flesh, the Boletus Satanás can be very indigestible, but not deadly as its name might suggest.
Olive Mushroom – Omphalotus olearius
One of the most striking characteristics of this mushroom species is its bluish bioluminescence in the dark. This type of mushroom is highly veined and is often confused with other species such as the orange chanterelle.
Blood Rusula – Russula sanguinea
Contrary to its name, this is a type of mushroom that is poisonous but not deadly. Its effects typically affect the digestive system and are accompanied by intense stomach pain.
Bonnet – Gyromitra Esculenta
This mushroom has generated considerable debate regarding its safety for consumption, as some people have experienced no adverse effects while others have suffered poisoning. The toxic effects of this mushroom are therefore inconsistent and can be fatal.
Green cappuccino – Amanita phalloides
It can be fatal if poisoning is not treated promptly . This mushroom is known for killing Emperor Claudius and Pope Clement VII. Cases of poisoning from consuming this mushroom are quite common, as it can be easily confused with other species such as Agaricus arvensis.
White Cappuccino – Amanita Verna
Young specimens are odorless, but over time they develop a rather unpleasant smell. The deadly effects of this mushroom species are similar to those of the death cap mushroom discussed earlier.
Coiled Paxillus – Paxillus Involutus
For a long time, this mushroom species was classified as edible, but that has now changed. This mushroom can cause severe poisoning if not cooked long enough . Many people recommend against picking it.
Bleached Clitocybe – Clitocybe Dealbata
The cap of this mushroom is less than 5 centimeters in diameter. Due to its high muscarine content , it is considered a toxic species.
Clitocybe Phyllophila
With white, fibrous flesh that many say smells like wet flour, Clitocybe Phyllophila has high toxicity.
Tricholoma Pardinum
With a size that can reach 20 centimeters in diameter, and with a large amount of dull gray flesh, we are talking about a mushroom within the group of poisonous ones, which produces severe gastroenteritis.
Mountain Cortinarius – Cortinarius orellanus
In this case, we are indeed talking about a deadly mushroom species . Symptoms of poisoning can take three to four weeks to appear; during this time, the poison slowly attacks and destroys the kidneys. It's worth noting that this mushroom species is very rare.
Monguis – Psilocybe semilanceata
One of the most notable effects of consuming this type of toxic mushroom is the hallucinogenic effect it produces. This occurs because this mushroom contains psilocybin and psilocybin, two elements that affect the central nervous system.
Deceitful Mushroom – Entoloma Sinuatum
A very toxic species of white mushroom , which can sometimes be confused with Lepsia nebularis, which in this case is a completely edible mushroom.
False Galipierno – Amanita Pantherina
Measuring between 6 and 10 centimeters in size and with whitish flesh that gives off a radish-like smell, this species is considered very dangerous as it causes very serious poisonings , even leading to death.
Entoloma Nidorosum
One of the most notable characteristics of this mushroom species is its potent nitrous odor. This poisonous mushroom can cause gastroenteritis , though it is not as dangerous as the previous one.
Deadly Lepiota – Lepiota brunneoincarnata
It's very easy to confuse with other edible mushroom species, but this one can be deadly. One of the tips mushroom foragers give is to never eat any Lepiota species smaller than 8 cm in diameter.
Smelly Amanita – Amanita Virosa
With humidity, it becomes slimy, and with dry weather, it develops a satiny appearance. This type of mushroom releases an unpleasant odor, hence its name. Consuming this mushroom can cause death due to its extreme toxicity.
Inoculated Inocybe – Inocybe Patouillardii
Pale in color, dense, fleshy, and silky. As with other varieties, it is toxic due to its high muscaria content . In some cases, it has caused severe poisonings, even resulting in death.
Clavaria – Ramaria Formosa
Poisonous but not deadly. The main symptom of poisoning from this mushroom is intense diarrhea that lasts about two days until all traces are eliminated.
Thanks to this list, you now know which mushrooms are poisonous . If you're new to mushroom hunting, having a small guide will help you avoid mistakes and prevent potential poisoning. Remember, if you have even the slightest doubt about any type of mushroom, it's best not to touch it and leave it where it is.
