Michael Davis
Taxidermy is the traditional method of preserving and mounting animals for display. But what about preserving mushrooms? Some Reddit users have discussed the possibility of preserving mushrooms using methods like pickling, freeze drying, and coating them in resin. One user suggested using denatured alcohol, rubbing alcohol, or acetone for wet preservation, while another user warned about potential dangers of creating a mushroom tincture without knowing the alkaloids present. While information on mushroom taxidermy is scarce, these online discussions offer a starting point for experimentation and further research.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Preservation techniques | Freeze drying, regular drying, wet preservation, pickling, coating with resin |
| Wet preservation techniques | Denature alcohol, rubbing alcohol, acetone, formaldehyde, Osmium tetroxide, glutaraldehyde, parducz fixation |
| Drawbacks | Mushrooms may dehydrate in alcohol, alkaloids may be released |
| Other techniques | Coating with a spray to replace moisture, sealing with a clear sealant |
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What You'll Learn
Preservation methods: freeze drying, pickling, or alcohol bath
Freeze drying is an effective preservation method for mushrooms, but it is not a cheap process, and DIY can be complicated. To freeze-dry mushrooms, cut them and spread them onto dehydrator trays with mesh liners or parchment paper. Dehydrator trays are not necessary if you are using freeze-dryer trays. Dehydrate at 125°F (51°C) for 4-8 hours or longer, depending on the humidity. The freeze-drying process will take approximately 12-15 hours. After drying, allow the mushrooms to cool for 30-60 minutes, then package them in an airtight container. Vacuum sealing in vacuum seal bags, mylar bags, or mason jars will extend the shelf life.
Regular drying is a more accessible alternative to freeze-drying. This process can be as simple as laying the mushrooms out in the sun to dry or putting them in a dehydrator overnight at around 115–120°F (46–49°C).
Pickling is another effortless preservation method for mushrooms. To pickle mushrooms, clean and wash the mushrooms, then put them in a pot and fill it with enough water to cover them. Add half a cup of vinegar to the water, bring it to a boil, and cook for 15 minutes. When the mushrooms are cooked, drain the liquid and set it aside. In a separate pot, boil water, salt, sugar, bay leaves, and peppercorns. Once the sugar and salt have dissolved, add 6 tablespoons of vinegar, then remove from the heat. Clean and dice garlic into small pieces, place them at the bottom of jars, and fill the jars with cooked mushrooms. Pour the marinade over the mushrooms, cover, and store them in the refrigerator. Pickled mushrooms can be stored in the refrigerator for several weeks.
Alcohol baths are also used to preserve mushrooms. Denatured alcohol, rubbing alcohol, or acetone can be used to cover mushroom tissue, changing the solution every 1-2 days for 1-2 weeks. This preservation method can last for decades. Alcohol is also used in mushroom tinctures, which involve both alcohol and water extraction to preserve the various constituents of mushrooms.
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Sealants: resin, formaldehyde, or fixatives
Preserving mushrooms for display can be done through various methods. One of the most popular methods is freeze-drying, which, although effective, can be costly and complicated. Regular drying methods can also be used, but mushrooms with caps are likely to shrivel.
To preserve the appearance of mushrooms, sealants such as resin, formaldehyde, or fixatives can be used. Resin is a popular choice for preserving mushrooms, as it can coat and seal the mushroom, preventing dehydration and maintaining its structure. Formaldehyde is another option, and it is often used at a concentration of 4% (10% Formalin) for wet preservation. Other fixatives used by mycologists include vapor fixation with Osmium tetroxide and glutaraldehyde.
When using sealants, it is important to consider the type of mushroom and its drying method. Some mushrooms, such as shelf fungus, do not change significantly when dried and may not require additional sealants. However, capped mushrooms are more prone to shrivelling and may benefit from a desiccant or freeze-drying before coating with a preservative.
Alcohol-based solutions, such as denatured alcohol, rubbing alcohol, or acetone, can also be used for wet preservation. However, it is important to note that mushrooms may dehydrate in an alcohol bath, and the creation of a mushroom tincture may introduce unknown alkaloids. Therefore, caution is advised when handling certain mushroom species.
Ultimately, the choice of sealant depends on the desired preservation method and the specific type of mushroom being preserved. Each sealant has its own advantages and considerations, and experimentation with different methods may be necessary to find the most suitable approach for preserving mushrooms through taxidermy techniques.
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Mushroom types: capped mushrooms, or shelf fungus
There are several methods for preserving capped mushrooms and shelf fungus for taxidermy purposes. One popular method is freeze-drying, which can be expensive and complicated to do yourself. Regular drying methods can also be used, but this may cause capped mushrooms to shrivel. To avoid this, a desiccant designed for drying flowers can be used, or a dehydrator can be purchased online. If you wish to preserve the mushroom's structure, a fixative like formalin can be applied, though this method is more commonly used for animal taxidermy.
Wet preservation is another option for taxidermy mushrooms. This involves using a fixative to preserve the mushroom, such as formaldehyde, vapor fixation with Osmium tetroxide, or glutaraldehyde. Alcohol can also be used, though mushrooms may dehydrate quickly in an alcohol bath, and the alkaloids produced may be dangerous. Other methods of wet preservation include pickling or using resin, a method employed by some local artists.
When it comes to mushroom types, capped mushrooms and shelf fungus differ in their preservation needs. Shelf fungus, or polypores, are a type of bracket or shelf fungi that form large fruiting bodies called conks. These are typically woody, circular, and shelf- or bracket-shaped, with pores or tubes on the underside. They are mainly found on trees and woody debris and may resemble mushrooms. Capped mushrooms, on the other hand, are more likely to shrivel when dried and may require additional treatments to maintain their structure.
Polypores are a morphological group of mushrooms and hydnoid fungi that produce spores called basidiospores. Most inhabit tree trunks or branches and consume the wood, though some species form mycorrhiza with trees. They are typically tough and sturdy, which may contribute to their ability to maintain their structure during the drying process. Some polypores, like the tinder fungus, have been used for utilitarian purposes, such as creating tinder and a material similar to leather. Others, like the artist's conk, are used as a substrate for drawings.
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Drying methods: desiccant, or natural drying
Drying mushrooms is a crucial step in the taxidermy process. There are two main methods for drying mushrooms: using a desiccant or natural drying.
Desiccant Drying
A desiccant is a chemical substance with a high affinity for water. It absorbs water from the air, lowering the humidity and causing the mushrooms to dry out. This method is faster than natural drying and is useful in humid climates. Here are the steps for using a desiccant to dry mushrooms:
- Clean the mushrooms with a brush or dry paper towel. Avoid getting the mushrooms wet, as this can cause mould to grow.
- Slice the mushrooms into pieces about 1/2 inch thick.
- Fan dry the mushrooms for 24-48 hours. This step helps speed up the drying process and prevents the desiccant from becoming oversaturated.
- Place the mushrooms in an airtight container with the desiccant. Make sure the mushrooms are not in direct contact with the desiccant.
- Store the container in a cool, dry place until the mushrooms are completely dry.
Natural Drying
Natural drying is a slower process but does not require any special equipment. It is best suited for dry climates and seasons with low humidity, such as fall, winter, and spring. Here are the steps for naturally drying mushrooms:
- Clean the mushrooms with a brush or a damp cloth, but avoid using water directly on the mushrooms.
- Slice the mushrooms into pieces about 1/2 inch thick.
- Place the mushrooms on a drying rack or string them up with cooking string. Ensure there is good air circulation around the mushrooms.
- Lay the mushrooms in a sunny, well-ventilated area. A windowsill or rooftop is ideal.
- Allow the mushrooms to dry for 7-10 days, or until they are completely dry. Check the mushrooms regularly to ensure they are drying properly.
- If the mushrooms are not fully dry after a few days, you can finish drying them in the oven at a low temperature.
Regardless of the drying method chosen, it is important to ensure that the mushrooms are completely dry before storing them. Properly dried mushrooms can be stored for up to two years and can be rehydrated for cooking.
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Safety: alkaloids, rot, and toxicity
Safety is a key consideration when preparing a mushroom for taxidermy. Mushrooms are fungi, and some species contain alkaloids, which are naturally occurring chemical compounds that can be toxic to humans. These compounds can cause a range of symptoms, from mild gastrointestinal upset to severe liver and kidney failure, and even death. Therefore, it is essential to take precautions to identify the mushroom species and avoid any known to be poisonous.
Alkaloids are a diverse group of compounds, but those found in mushrooms are typically classified as hallucinogenic, psychedelic, or entheogenic. These compounds can have significant physiological effects on the human body, including altered sensorium, euphoria, hallucinations, and gastrointestinal distress. Some of the well-known alkaloids found in mushrooms include psilocybin, psilocin, baeocystin, norbaeocystin, bufotenin, and aeruginascin. These compounds are present in various mushroom genera, including Psilocybe, Conocybe, Gymnopilus, and Panaeolus.
When preparing a mushroom for taxidermy, it is crucial to wear protective gear, such as gloves and a face mask, to avoid direct contact with any potentially toxic compounds. It is also important to work in a well-ventilated area to prevent inhalation of spores or other mushroom particles. Proper disposal of any mushroom waste is essential, as some species can be harmful to pets or wildlife if ingested.
Another safety concern is the potential for rot or degradation of the mushroom during the taxidermy process. Mushrooms are susceptible to dehydration, especially when exposed to preservatives like alcohol. While dehydration may be desirable in some cases, excessive drying can compromise the structural integrity of the mushroom, making it brittle and difficult to work with. On the other hand, excessive moisture can promote the growth of mould or bacteria, leading to spoilage and potential toxicity.
To mitigate the risks associated with alkaloids, rot, and toxicity, it is advisable to select mushroom species that are known to be non-toxic and relatively stable. Additionally, proper research and identification of the mushroom species are crucial before beginning the taxidermy process. Consulting expert sources or mycology guides can help ensure the safe handling and preservation of mushrooms.
Overall, while taxidermy of mushrooms may be a unique and intriguing endeavour, it is not without potential hazards. By taking the necessary safety precautions and staying informed about the characteristics of different mushroom species, one can minimise the risks associated with alkaloids, rot, and toxicity.
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Frequently asked questions
Mushroom taxidermy is the process of preserving mushrooms for display.
To get started with mushroom taxidermy, you should research and learn about the different preservation methods. You can also look into online courses or classes in your area to build your foundational knowledge.
There are several methods for preserving mushrooms, including dehydration, freeze-drying, pickling, and wet preservation using fixatives such as formaldehyde or alcohol.
When choosing a preservation method, consider the type of mushroom and its appearance when dried. Some mushrooms, like shelf fungus, may not change drastically when dried, while capped mushrooms are more likely to shrivel.
