Emily Johnson
Mycology, or the study of fungi, often involves reagent testing to identify mushroom species. Reagent testing involves placing a chemical on a mushroom to observe a colour change. The most common tests are Melzer's reagent, iron salts, and potassium hydroxide. Other reagents include Marquis, Mecke, Liebermann, and Froehde. These reagents are used to test for the presence of Psilocybin, the active ingredient in magic mushrooms. Reagent testing can also be used to test for potency, with kits like the Psilocybin QTest Kit. It's important to note that reagent tests are presumptive and do not indicate the safety of a substance.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Reagents | Marquis, Mecke, Liebermann, Froehde, Ehrlich, Simon's, Mandelin, Hofmann, Morris, NIK, NARK |
| Test Sites | Cap, gill, pores, stipe, stem, cross sections of the cap and stipe, partial veil |
| Chemicals | Ammonia, ferrous sulfate, potassium hydroxide, hydrochloric acid, aniline oil, glacial acetic acid, sulfuric acid, vanillin, iron salts |
| Results | Color change, no change, blue, blue-green, brown, reddish-brown, yellow, pink, purple, orange, green, black, magenta, red |
| Other | Tests should be carried out on fresh mushrooms shortly after picking, wear protective gear and use safety data sheets |
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What You'll Learn
- Use a reagent test kit to identify Psilocybin, the active ingredient in mushrooms
- Test sites: the cap, gills, pores, stem, and cross-sections of the cap and stem
- Common reagents: ammonia, ferrous sulfate, and potassium hydroxide
- Safety: wear gloves and protect your skin, eyes, clothing, and work surface
- Test fresh mushrooms only, shortly after picking
Use a reagent test kit to identify Psilocybin, the active ingredient in mushrooms
Mycology involves the use of chemical tests to identify and categorise different species of mushrooms. The tests are carried out on fresh mushrooms, shortly after picking, by applying the reagents to the cap, gill, or stem of the mushroom.
To identify psilocybin, the active ingredient in "magic mushrooms", reagent test kits are available. These kits are designed to presumptively identify psilocybin and the less common substance, psilocin. A positive reaction for psilocybin will show a distinct pink colour, whereas a purple colour indicates the presence of psilocin. The test does not, however, indicate the quantity of the substance in the mushroom.
Other reagents that can be used to test for psilocybin include Marquis, Mecke, Liebermann, and Froehde. These reagents are used to rule out the presence of NBOMe or DOC in mushrooms. When using these reagents, an instant and vivid colour change indicates a positive reaction. It is important to note that a positive or negative test result does not indicate the safety of the substance.
In addition to reagent tests, government agencies use HPLC for quantitative analysis. Furthermore, the Psilocybin QTest Kit can detect the concentration of psilocybin and psilocin in dried fungal material. This test kit provides the percentage and milligram amount of psilocybin, which also accounts for the presence of psilocin.
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Test sites: the cap, gills, pores, stem, and cross-sections of the cap and stem
When reagent testing mushrooms, there are several sites on the mushroom's anatomy that can be used to identify the species. These include the cap, gills, pores, stem, and cross-sections of the cap and stem.
The cap, also known as the pileus, is the structure on top of the mushroom that holds the gills or pores. Caps can come in a variety of shapes, sizes, colours, and textures, and some even have scales or teeth. The colour and texture of the cap can be important identifiers when distinguishing between different species of mushrooms. For example, Schaeffer's test involves applying aniline or aniline water and an aqueous solution of 65% nitric acid to the cap, resulting in a bright orange colour in certain species. Additionally, when testing with KOH, the cap or gill surfaces of some mushrooms change colour dramatically, turning yellow, red, magenta, olive, or black.
Beneath the cap, you will find either gills, pores, ridges, or teeth. These structures are important for spore production and release. Gills, also known as lamellae, are thin, papery structures that hang vertically under the cap. The attachment of the gills to the stem can vary, and the colour, spacing, and thickness of the gills can also be identifying factors. Pores, on the other hand, appear as small, sponge-like holes that lead to tubes inside the cap. The colour, size, pattern, and quantity of pores can help determine the identity of the mushroom.
The stem, or stipe, can also provide clues to the mushroom's identity. Its shape and attachment to the cap can vary, and it may have scales or teeth. Additionally, certain chemical tests can be applied to the stem to induce a colour change. For example, a 2-3% aqueous solution of phenol applied to the stem can cause a colour change in some species.
Cross-sections of the cap and stem can also be tested. For example, the Meixner test, or Wieland test, uses concentrated hydrochloric acid to test for deadly amatoxins found in some species of Amanita. Additionally, cross-sections of the flesh can be tested with a strong alkali solution, resulting in colour changes that vary from yellows and pinks to reds, greens, and blacks.
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Common reagents: ammonia, ferrous sulfate, and potassium hydroxide
Reagent testing is a method used to identify the variety of some fungi. Some common reagents used for this purpose include ammonia, ferrous sulfate, and potassium hydroxide (KOH). Here is some information about using these reagents for mushroom testing:
Ammonia (NH3)
Ammonia is one of the most commonly used reagents for mushroom testing, particularly for identifying bolete and cortinarius species. To perform the test, place a drop of ammonia on the mushroom surface and observe any colour changes. A positive test result typically presents as a blue-green or grey colour, but it can also be brown, orange, or other colours. Some bolete caps may exhibit a flash of colour that quickly settles into a secondary colour.
Ferrous Sulfate (Iron Salts)
Ferrous sulfate, also known as iron salts or green vitriol, is another commonly used reagent. It is often used for Russula and Bolete identification. For optimal results, it is recommended to slightly break the surface of the mushroom cap before applying a drop of ferrous sulfate. Alternatively, iron salts can be dissolved in water (typically a 10% solution) and then applied to the mushroom flesh. One example of a reaction is the white flesh of Boletus chrysenteron, which stains lemon-yellow or olive. There are three expected outcomes with the iron salts test: no colour change (negative reaction), a colour change to olive, green, or blackish-green, or a colour change to reddish-pink.
Potassium Hydroxide (KOH)
Potassium hydroxide is also used in mushroom identification and can be purchased as a weak solution in flake form. A 3-10% solution of KOH will induce a colour change in some mushroom species. For example, in the genus Agaricus, some species like A. xanthodermus turn yellow with KOH treatment, while many others exhibit no reaction.
These common reagents can be used to aid in the identification and classification of mushrooms. It is important to follow safety guidelines when handling these chemicals and to consult reliable sources for specific instructions and expected outcomes for different mushroom species.
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Safety: wear gloves and protect your skin, eyes, clothing, and work surface
Safety should be a top priority when reagent testing mushrooms. It is important to wear gloves and protect your skin, eyes, clothing, and work surface. Most of the chemicals and stains used in reagent testing are quite safe, but it is still crucial to take precautions to avoid any potential hazards.
When working with reagent tests, it is recommended to wear nitrile gloves to protect your hands from coming into contact with any chemicals. These gloves provide a barrier between your skin and the reagents, reducing the risk of skin irritation or absorption of harmful substances. Additionally, it is advised to wear protective clothing that covers your body and arms. Long sleeves and closed shoes can provide an additional layer of protection against accidental spills or splashes.
Eye protection is also crucial. Safety goggles or glasses can shield your eyes from any splashes or sprays that may occur during the testing process. If you wear contact lenses, it is recommended to remove them before starting the test and wear prescription glasses or regular eyeglasses instead. In the event that any liquid comes into contact with your eyes, immediately rinse them with clean running water for several minutes, keeping your eyelids open with both hands.
To protect your work surface, it is advisable to cover it with a plastic sheet or a disposable tablecloth. This will catch any spills or drips, preventing the chemicals from coming into contact with your furniture or countertops. It is also important to work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling any fumes that may be released during the testing process.
Lastly, always read the safety data sheets provided with the reagents and follow the instructions carefully. Some common reagents used in mushroom testing, such as ammonia, ferrous sulfate, and potassium hydroxide, can be hazardous if not handled properly. By taking these safety precautions and staying vigilant during the testing process, you can help ensure a safe and controlled environment for reagent testing mushrooms.
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Test fresh mushrooms only, shortly after picking
When testing mushrooms, it is important to only test fresh specimens shortly after picking. This is because the chemical composition of mushrooms can change over time, and drying or prolonged storage may affect the accuracy of the test results. Here are some detailed instructions on how to reagent test fresh mushrooms:
Begin by gathering your supplies, which include a clean, flat surface, a well-lit area, and a mushroom identification guide to help narrow down the possible species you are testing. It is also important to have gloves and a face mask to ensure your safety during the testing process. Additionally, you will need a mushroom testing kit that includes reagents and testing tools like a spatula, scalpel, or knife.
The next step is to prepare the mushroom for testing. Using a clean, sharp tool, carefully collect a small sample from the mushroom's cap or stem. Try to take a sample that includes both the
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