Emma Wilson
The Blue Mycena Mushroom, also known as the Blue Ghost Mushroom, is a rare fungus native to the Pacific Northwest region of North America. It is known for its striking blue-grey colour and delicate, translucent appearance. While some species of Blue Mycena are considered edible and are prized for their unique flavour and texture, others are poisonous and can be deadly if ingested. But are Blue Mycena mushrooms hallucinogenic?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Colour | Bright blue |
| Cap width | 6-20 mm |
| Height | 10-24 mm |
| Stem colour | White |
| Stem shape | Smooth |
| Base shape | Flat white disk with a blue margin |
| Gills | White with blue margins |
| Spores | White and ellipsoid |
| Habitat | Grow among debris of branches, leaves or trunks of eucalyptus or beech |
| Shape | Pileate-stipitate |
| Size | Minute (0.5 to 15 cm in cap size) |
| Veils and volva | Not observed |
| Hymenium | Lamellate or poroid |
| Bioluminescence | No |
| Edibility | Unknown, may contain toxins |
| Hallucinogenic | May contain the hallucinogen psilocybin, but this is unconfirmed |
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What You'll Learn
Blue Mycena mushrooms: some species are poisonous
Blue Mycena mushrooms are small fungi that stand out for the bright blue colour of their caps. Their caps are umbrella-shaped and range in width from 6 to 20 mm. Their height varies between 10 and 24 mm, and their stems are smooth and white. These mushrooms grow among the debris of branches, leaves, or trunks of eucalyptus or beech trees, and they can be found both individually and in groups.
The Mycena genus is considered one of the most abundant genera of mushrooms within the Agaricales order, with species distributed across the world. While some species are edible, others are poisonous and contain toxins. The edibility of most species is unknown, as they are too small to be useful in cooking. Mycena cyanorrhiza, for example, is known to contain the hallucinogen psilocybin, though this has not been confirmed. Other species, like amicta, also stain blue but are said not to contain psilocybin.
It is important to note that consuming hallucinogenic mushrooms, also known as magic mushrooms or shrooms, can have risks. Magic mushrooms can affect everyone differently, and the effects can last approximately four to six hours. People who consume these mushrooms may experience perceptual changes, such as visual and auditory hallucinations, as well as feelings of euphoria, increased sweating, nausea, and vomiting. While the use of magic mushrooms rarely results in life-threatening symptoms, consuming a large amount or a strong batch of mushrooms can lead to a "bad trip," which can be a disturbing experience.
In summary, while some species of Blue Mycena mushrooms are poisonous, the edibility of most species is unknown. It is important to exercise caution when encountering these mushrooms in the wild and not to consume them unless their safety has been verified by a trusted source.
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Blue Mycena mushrooms: not all species are hallucinogenic
Blue Mycena mushrooms are known for their bright blue colour, which is unique within their genus. While some have speculated that certain Blue Mycena mushrooms contain the hallucinogen psilocybin, this has not been confirmed. It is important to understand that not all species of Blue Mycena mushrooms are hallucinogenic.
Mycena is a rich and diverse genus of mushrooms, with over 500 species distributed across the world. They are characterised by their small size, with caps rarely exceeding a few centimetres in width, and a thin, fragile stem. The mushrooms are typically grey or brown, but some species, like the Blue Mycena, exhibit brighter colours.
The Blue Mycena mushroom, or Mycena interrupta, is primarily found in Australia, New Zealand, New Caledonia, and Chile. It is characterised by its bright blue cap, which is umbrella-shaped and varies in width from 6 to 20 mm. The height of the mushroom ranges from 10 to 24 mm, and it has a smooth, white stem. The gills are white with blue margins, and the spores are also white and ellipsoid. These mushrooms grow among the debris of branches, leaves, or trunks of eucalyptus or beech trees, often adhering to wood or wood substrates.
While some species of mushrooms within the Mycena genus are known to be hallucinogenic, it is important to note that this is not a characteristic of all Blue Mycena mushrooms. The hallucinogenic effects of mushrooms are attributed to the presence of psilocybin, a psychoactive chemical. However, the presence of psilocybin in Blue Mycena mushrooms is not confirmed.
The edibility of most Mycena mushrooms is unknown, as they are too small to be of significant culinary value. Some species are known to be edible, while others contain toxins. Therefore, it is essential to properly identify mushroom species before consumption and to exercise caution, especially when it comes to wild mushrooms.
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Blue Mycena mushrooms: the colour blue is not related to psilocin
Blue Mycena mushrooms, or Mycena interrupta, are known for their bright blue colour. This unique hue is not an indication of hallucinogenic properties, as the presence of psilocybin is not related to the colour blue. While some mushrooms in the Mycena genus are known to contain the hallucinogen psilocybin, the Blue Mycena mushroom's colour is due to other factors.
Psilocybin, often referred to as magic mushrooms, is a naturally occurring psychedelic drug. It is known to induce hallucinations and distort a person's thinking, sense of time, and emotions. The effects can vary from perceptual changes to negative experiences, commonly known as a "bad trip". However, the presence of psilocybin in Blue Mycena mushrooms is uncertain and has not been confirmed.
Mycena mushrooms are characterised by their small size, with caps rarely exceeding a few centimetres in width. The Blue Mycena mushroom, in particular, has a cap width ranging from 6 to 20 mm. Its height varies between 10 and 24 mm, and it possesses a smooth, white stem. The gills are white with blue margins, and the spores are also white and ellipsoid.
The Blue Mycena mushroom is the only species in the Mycena genus with a blue-coloured cap. While some other Mycenas stain blue, they are not known to contain psilocybin. The colour of the mushrooms is likely due to the presence of specific pigments or other chemical compounds that are unrelated to psilocybin.
Additionally, the bioluminescence observed in some Mycena species is not directly related to the colour blue. Instead, it is a result of a chemical reaction between oxygen and luciferin molecules, catalysed by the enzyme luciferase. This reaction produces light, resulting in the mushrooms' glow, known as foxfire. However, the Blue Mycena mushroom is not bioluminescent, further supporting that the colour blue in this species is unrelated to any potential hallucinogenic properties.
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Blue Mycena mushrooms: native to the Pacific Northwest region
The Blue Mycena mushroom, also known as the Blue Ghost Mushroom, is a rare and visually striking fungus native to the Pacific Northwest region of North America. With a distinctive blue-grey colour and a delicate, translucent appearance, these mushrooms are a captivating sight in the forest. They typically grow on the rotting wood of conifer trees, favouring damp and shaded areas. The blue colour of the Blue Mycena mushroom is caused by a pigment called omphalina.
The Mycena genus, derived from the Ancient Greek "mykos" or "mykes" meaning fungus or mushroom, is characterised by small, fragile fruiting bodies that make up for their diminutive size with their overwhelming abundance and ethereal composition. The mushrooms are typically only a few centimetres in width, with bell-shaped to conical caps and thin, fragile stems. Most Mycenas are grey or brown, but some species, like the Blue Mycena, boast brighter colours. The gills are usually attached and often feature cystidia, while the spores are white.
While some species of Blue Mycena mushrooms are considered edible and are prized for their unique flavour and texture, it is crucial to exercise caution when handling and consuming these fungi. Certain species of Blue Mycena are poisonous and can be deadly if ingested. The Mycena cyanorrhiza species, for example, contains the hallucinogen psilocybin, which is known to induce psychedelic effects in those who consume it. Psilocybin is a psychoactive chemical that can alter a person's thinking, sense of time, emotions, and perception, leading to hallucinations and other sensory distortions.
Identifying specific Mycena species can be challenging, and some can only be distinguished by examining microscopic features such as the shape of the cystidia or cheilocystidia. The Pacific Northwest Key Council provides a key for identifying Mycenas in the Pacific Northwest, emphasising characteristics visible in the field, such as milk exuding from the stem, stickiness of the stem, structures at the base of the stem, gill edges with different colours, and brightly coloured or white fruiting bodies. However, for many species, particularly those that are white, grey, brown, or black, microscopic examination of the spores and cheilocystidia is necessary for accurate identification.
The Blue Mycena mushroom, with its enchanting blue hue, is undoubtedly a fascinating and beautiful addition to any outdoor exploration in the Pacific Northwest. However, it is essential to approach these mushrooms with caution, as their attractiveness belies the potential danger posed by certain poisonous species.
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Blue Mycena mushrooms: prized for their unique flavour and texture
Blue Mycena mushrooms, or Mycenas, are known for their distinctive appearance and are prized for their unique flavour and texture. They are small mushrooms with a bright blue cap, shaped like an umbrella, and a smooth, white stem. The cap's width typically ranges from 6 to 20 mm, while the height of the mushroom varies between 10 and 24 mm. The gills are white with blue margins, and the spores are also white and ellipsoid.
Mycenas are hard to identify by species, and some can only be distinguished by microscopic features such as the shape of their cystidia. They are considered minute in size, with cap sizes ranging from 0.5 to 15 cm. Most Mycenas are grey or brown, but a few species, like the Blue Mycena, exhibit brighter colours. The Blue Mycena is the only member of its genus with a blue cap, and it is also unique in that it is not bioluminescent.
The flavour and texture of Blue Mycena mushrooms are highly regarded, despite their small size. While the edibility of many mushroom species is uncertain due to potential toxins, the Blue Mycena is believed to be safe for consumption and offers a distinct culinary experience.
These mushrooms grow among the debris of branches, leaves, or trunks of eucalyptus or beech trees. They can be found individually or in groups, and they have the ability to adhere their base to wood or a wooden substrate. The Blue Mycena, or Mycena interrupta, is native to Australia, New Zealand, New Caledonia, and Chile.
While some sources mention a mushroom variety called "blue meanies" in the context of hallucinogenic effects, this appears to be a reference to a specific type of magic mushroom known for its psychoactive properties. Blue Mycena mushrooms, on the other hand, are primarily valued for their culinary qualities and the striking appearance they add to dishes.
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Frequently asked questions
Blue mycean mushrooms, or mycena interrupta, are small mushrooms found in Australia, New Zealand, New Caledonia, New South Wales, Tasmania, Chile, and Queensland. They are known for their bright blue umbrella-shaped hats and white stems.
Blue mycean mushrooms are not known to be hallucinogenic. However, some species of the mushroom are poisonous and can be deadly if ingested, while others are considered edible and are prized for their unique flavor and texture.
Hallucinogenic mushrooms, also known as magic mushrooms or shrooms, contain the psychoactive compounds psilocybin and psilocin, which can induce hallucinations and alter a person's thinking, sense of time, and emotions. Common types of magic mushrooms include golden tops, blue meanies, and liberty caps.
The effects of consuming hallucinogenic mushrooms can vary depending on individual factors such as mood and environment. Perceptual changes, including visual and auditory hallucinations, are commonly reported. Other possible effects include euphoria, increased sweating, nausea, and vomiting. It is important to note that consuming any type of drug, including hallucinogenic mushrooms, carries risks and should be done with caution.
While some wild mushrooms are edible and prized for their unique flavor, it is crucial to accurately identify mushrooms before consumption due to the potential presence of poisonous species. Accurate identification requires expertise, and consuming the wrong mushrooms can have severe consequences, including death. Therefore, it is generally advised to avoid consuming wild mushrooms unless one has sufficient knowledge or guidance from an expert.
