Laura Smith
The smallest mushroom in the world is a highly debated topic, with some claiming it to be the Mycena subcyanocephala, a species of fungi native to the tropical regions of Taiwan. With buttons approximately 1 mm in height and a white colour tinged with pale blue, this tiny fungus grows on wood and is believed to be toxic, possibly containing the poisonous chemical muscarine. However, other sources point to an unidentified miniature mushroom spotted in Thailand, with only 8 known sightings, leaving its effects and edibility a mystery.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Species | Mycena subcyanocephala |
| Habitat | Tropical parts of Taiwan |
| Size | 1 mm tall |
| Colour | White with a pale blue tone |
| Edibility | Not edible, potentially toxic |
| Family | Mycenaceae |
| Closest Relative | Mycena interrupta |
| Basidia | 2-spored |
| Cheilocystidia | Smooth and round-headed |
| Pileiocystidia and caulocystidia | Thin-walled |
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What You'll Learn
The smallest mushroom in the world is the Mycena subcyanocephala
The Mycena subcyanocephala stands out not only for its diminutive size but also for its distinctive appearance. Its cap, or pileus, exhibits a white colour with a subtle pale blue tone. This species is characterised by tomentulose fruit bodies, thin-walled pileocystidia and caulocystidia, and smooth, round-headed cheilocystidia. Furthermore, it possesses inamyloid basidiospores and 2-spored basidia.
While it may be tempting to view this miniature mushroom as a potential culinary ingredient, it is important to exercise caution. The Mycena subcyanocephala is not considered edible and may even contain toxic compounds. The presence of the chemical muscarine, which could be harmful, has been speculated. Given the small size and delicate nature of this fungus, it is challenging to determine its edibility or conduct comprehensive testing.
The Mycena subcyanocephala is an intriguing example of nature's diversity, showcasing how even the tiniest organisms can have unique characteristics and ecological roles. Its discovery and documentation contribute to our understanding of the vast and varied world of fungi, where even small mushrooms like the Mycena subcyanocephala play their essential parts.
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It is about 1mm tall and found in Taiwan
The smallest mushroom in the world is the Mycena subcyanocephala, a species of fungi native to the tropical regions of Taiwan. This tiny fungus stands at just about 1 millimetre tall, with a white cap that takes on a pale blue tone. The mushroom grows on wood and is a member of the Mycenaceae family, specifically the section Spinosae.
Mycena subcyanocephala is not considered edible and may even be toxic, possibly containing the harmful chemical muscarine. It is closely related to Mycena interrupta, another tiny mushroom species.
The Mycena subcyanocephala mushroom is so small that it is difficult to determine whether or not it is poisonous. Its small stature also makes it challenging to spot, with only eight known sightings worldwide. This rarity makes it hard for mycologists to study and conduct extensive research on the species.
Interestingly, while this mushroom is native to Taiwan, there have been claims of a similarly minuscule mushroom spotted in Thailand. A photograph of this tiny fungus was posted on Reddit, sparking discussions about its potential toxicity and unknown properties. The photographer, Eric Cho, captured the mushroom's unique characteristics, showcasing its extremely small size.
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It may be toxic as many of its relatives are
The smallest mushroom in the world is the Mycena subcyanocephala, a species of fungi native to Taiwan. It typically grows on wood in tropical climates and is noted for its diminutive size, with buttons and caps measuring about 1 mm tall. The mushroom is characterized by its white colour with a pale blue tone and belongs to the Mycenaceae family.
While the toxicity of the Mycena subcyanocephala is not definitively known, it is believed to potentially embody the toxic chemical muscarine. Muscarine is a toxic compound that can cause adverse effects in humans, such as sweating, salivation, blurred vision, and in severe cases, respiratory failure and death. Many of the closest relatives of the Mycena subcyanocephala, such as the Mycena interrupta, are known to be poisonous. Therefore, it is strongly advised not to consume the Mycena subcyanocephala or consider it edible in any way.
It is important to note that the world of fungi encompasses a diverse range of species, some of which bear a striking resemblance to one another. This similarity in appearance can make it challenging to distinguish between edible and toxic mushrooms. For instance, the deadly dapperling, distributed across Europe and Asia, is often mistaken for edible varieties, leading to severe liver toxicity if consumed. Similarly, the destroying angels, a genus of Amanita mushrooms, closely resemble edible button and meadow mushrooms, resulting in accidental poisonings.
The potential toxicity of mushrooms underscores the importance of accurate identification before consumption. Visual cues, such as the presence of polka dots or lines on caps and stems, can be indicative of toxic varieties. Additionally, some mushrooms contain heat-stable amatoxins that persist even during cooking, making them particularly dangerous. These toxins can cause violent abdominal pain, vomiting, and bloody diarrhoea, rapidly leading to dehydration and potential organ failure.
In conclusion, while the Mycena subcyanocephala may be the smallest mushroom, its potential toxicity serves as a reminder that size does not determine a mushroom's safety profile. With many toxic relatives and the possibility of embodying the harmful chemical muscarine, it is essential to exercise caution and refrain from consuming any mushrooms without proper knowledge and expertise.
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Other small mushrooms include Strobilurus conigenoides and Holwaya mucida
Strobilurus conigenoides, commonly known as the Magnolia-cone mushroom, is a small to medium-sized mushroom. It has a conic to bell-shaped cap that ranges in colour from yellow-brown to reddish-brown. The caps are usually 1-3 cm in diameter, and the stems can grow up to 6 cm long. This mushroom typically fruits in the spring in East and Central Texas, often growing in clusters on decaying conifer logs, particularly those of eastern red cedar and other junipers. It is a relatively rare find in the region but can be found in areas with abundant conifer debris.
Holwaya mucida is another small mushroom species. Unfortunately, not much information is available about this mushroom, but it is known to exist and has been documented by mushroom observers.
Other small mushrooms include the Pachyella clypeata and Ionomidotis irregularis. These small fungi play essential roles in their ecosystems, just like their larger counterparts.
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Small mushrooms are no less essential than larger ones
While the smallest mushroom in the world, Mycena subcyanocephala, may be tiny, with caps about 1 mm tall, small mushrooms are no less essential than their larger counterparts. This species of fungi, found in the tropical parts of Taiwan, is a member of the Mycenaceae family and is closely related to Mycena interrupta. While it may be small, it packs a punch, as it may contain the toxic chemical muscarine and is therefore not considered edible.
Small mushrooms, such as Strobilurus conigenoides, Holwaya mucida, Pachyella clypeata, and Ionomidotis irregularis, play just as important a role in the ecosystem as larger fungi. They contribute to the decomposition of organic matter, the recycling of nutrients, and the formation of mutualistic relationships with other organisms.
For example, some small mushrooms may be mycorrhizal, forming symbiotic associations with the roots of trees and other plants. In exchange for carbohydrates, the mushrooms provide their host plant with increased water and nutrient absorption, as well as improved resistance to pathogens. This mutually beneficial relationship helps both the mushroom and the plant to thrive.
Additionally, small mushrooms can serve as a food source for a variety of organisms, including insects, small mammals, and other fungi. They may also act as decomposers, breaking down organic materials and returning nutrients to the soil, contributing to the overall health and fertility of the ecosystem.
So, while they may not be as visually striking as larger mushrooms, small mushrooms are just as important and play a crucial role in maintaining the delicate balance of nature. Their size does not diminish their value, and they are a reminder that even the smallest things can have a significant impact on the world around them.
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Frequently asked questions
The smallest mushroom in the world is the Mycena subcyanocephala, which is about 1mm tall.
The Mycena subcyanocephala grows in the tropical parts of Taiwan.
The smallest mushroom in the world is white with a pale blue tone.
No, the Mycena subcyanocephala should not be considered edible. It may contain the toxic chemical muscarine.
No, there are only 8 known Mycena subcyanocephala in the world, so not much is known about it.
