John Miller
The Psilocybe cubensis, commonly known as the magic mushroom, is a species of psilocybin mushroom that grows on cow dung. It is also known as the golden halo, golden teacher, cube, or gold cap. The mushrooms grow in manure after rainstorms when temperatures reach 65 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. They are often sought by mushroom hunters, who sometimes trespass on private property to find them. While some mushrooms that grow on cow dung are edible, they may not be psychoactive or psychedelic.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Common name | Magic mushroom, Shroom, Golden halo, Golden teacher, Cube, Gold cap, Gold top, Golden top, Sacred mushroom, Blue mushroom, San Ysidro, Palenque mushroom, Hed keequai |
| Active compounds | Psilocybin and psilocin |
| Other names | Stropharia cubensis, Naematoloma caerulescens, Stropharia cyanescens |
| Habitat | Tropical and subtropical conditions, near cattle |
| Food | Grass covered with spores of P. cubensis |
| Growth | Mushrooms grow in cow dung, germinating in the dung |
| Occurrence | February to December (Northern Hemisphere), November to April (Southern Hemisphere) |
| Toxicity | Yes, can be toxic |
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What You'll Learn
The Psilocybe cubensis species
Psilocybe cubensis, commonly known as the magic mushroom, shroom, golden halo, golden teacher, cube, or gold cap, is a species of psilocybin mushroom of moderate potency. Its principal active compounds are psilocybin and psilocin, which are controlled psychoactive substances under Schedule I of the United Nations Convention on Psychotropic Substances (1971). Psilocybe cubensis is the best-known psilocybin mushroom due to its wide distribution and ease of cultivation and use since ancient times. It is commonly found on cow (and occasionally horse) dung, sugar cane mulch, or rich pasture soil. The mushrooms typically appear between February and December in the northern hemisphere and between November and April in the southern hemisphere.
The species was first described in 1906 as Stropharia cubensis by American mycologist Franklin Sumner Earle in Cuba. In 1949, German-born mycologist Rolf Singer moved the species into the genus Psilocybe, giving it the binomial name Psilocybe cubensis. Singer divided P. cubensis into three varieties: the nominate, which usually had a brownish cap; Murrill's cyanescens from Florida, which generally had a pale cap; and var. caerulascens from Indochina with a more yellowish cap.
Psilocybe cubensis is a pan-tropical species found in many regions worldwide, including the Gulf Coast states and southeastern United States, Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean, South America, Southeast Asia, Australia, Fiji, and possibly Nepal and Hawaii. In Asia, the species is known to grow on water buffalo dung. Psilocybe cubensis is intimately associated with cattle ranching, which has allowed it to find unique dispersal niches not available to most other fungi.
The mushrooms are small, with a height range of 2.5-10 cm. The stalks are long, thin, and fibrous, and the caps measure between 1 and 3 cm across. The cap is brown, becoming paler to almost white at the margin, and fades to more golden-brown or yellowish with age. The cap surface is smooth and sticky, sometimes with white universal veil remnants attached.
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Cattle ranchers' problems with mushroom hunters
Cattle ranchers in Central Florida have expressed frustration over mushroom hunters repeatedly trespassing on their properties in search of hallucinogenic mushrooms. Ranchers like Jim Adams, who manage large acres of land and cattle in East Orange County, have had to chase off mushroom hunters several times a week. The issue is not just limited to trespassing, as these hunters often cut wire fences or kick down wooden gates, leading to cows escaping and causing traffic disruptions on roadways. Ranchers feel that their concerns are not being prioritized by law enforcement, with deputies issuing warnings or citations instead of making arrests.
The mushrooms in question are known as "magic mushrooms" or "shrooms," which contain psilocybin, a hallucinogenic chemical. These mushrooms grow in manure after rainstorms when temperatures are between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. While some people seek out the hallucinogenic effects of these mushrooms, they are considered a controlled substance under Florida law, carrying potential felony charges for possession.
The conflict between cattle ranchers and mushroom hunters has led to a standoff, with ranchers wishing for more stringent enforcement of trespassing laws and hunters arguing that they are engaging in an ancient tradition. Some hunters also believe that ranchers in other regions, such as Southern California, are more lenient towards mushroom picking. However, the presence of "No Trespassing" signs and the potential legal consequences of psilocybin possession indicate that this is not just a harmless hobby but a serious matter that can lead to criminal charges.
In addition to the legal and safety concerns, there is also a risk of mushroom poisoning for both humans and cattle. While cattle typically avoid eating mushrooms when other food sources are available, accidental ingestion can occur. There have been documented cases of mushroom poisoning in beef calves in California, and toxicological tests are necessary to confirm poisoning in livestock. Ranchers need to be vigilant about the presence of mushrooms on their properties and take appropriate measures to protect their cattle and their land from the potential dangers posed by these fungi.
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Conditions for mushroom growth
Mushrooms require specific conditions to grow, and while they are adaptable, they will thrive when their preferred conditions are met. Mushrooms grow on substrates, which are the organic materials they call home. In the wild, different species of mushrooms grow on different materials. For example, wood-loving mushrooms like chicken-of-the-woods, chaga, and oyster mushrooms are often found on fallen trees or stumps. Other mushrooms prefer to grow on the forest floor, taking advantage of decomposing organic matter.
The ideal temperature for mushroom growth is around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, though they can grow in a wide range of temperatures, from 40 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Mushrooms thrive when temperatures hover around 70 degrees, and moisture is crucial to their growth within this range. Relative humidity levels should be between 80-95% during the fruiting stage, and misting your mushrooms twice a day can help maintain these levels. People in hot, dry climates may need to use a humidity tent to help maintain humidity.
Mushrooms also require the right amount of light. While most mushrooms prefer shade or dark places, some can grow in part to full sun. Fungi use mushrooms to distribute spores, so they must be outside the substrate. Producing mushrooms underground or inside a decaying stump would be ineffective and a waste of energy. To mimic nature, mushrooms should be placed in indirect natural light near a window or on a shaded windowsill. Direct sunlight should be avoided as it may dry the mushrooms out.
The substrate is also important for mushroom growth. Using the incorrect substrate or one without all the required nutrients can cause weak mycelial growth. The substrate should not be too dry, and it should have enough holes to allow for fresh air exchange. Mushrooms grown on urban farms benefit from a substrate that provides all the support they need, leading to more reliable growth.
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Cattle feed and anti-mushroom feed
There are several online discussions about cattle feed and anti-mushroom feed, with varying opinions and suggestions. Some people believe that farmers give their cows specific feed or supplements to prevent the growth of mushrooms in their manure. For example, it is suggested that feeding cows oranges may help due to the citric acid's ability to kill mushrooms. However, others refute this claim, stating that they have never encountered anti-mushroom feed for cattle. Instead, they suggest that farmers focus on managing their fields to prevent mushroom growth rather than altering cattle feed.
One common practice mentioned is spraying fields with fungicides to kill mushroom spores and prevent their growth. This method targets the source of the problem by eliminating the spores from the environment rather than attempting to do so through cattle feed. It is also important to note that cows primarily graze on hay and grass in fields, and the feed is typically composed of grains used to fatten steers before slaughter.
While some people speculate about ways to intentionally seed a cattle farm with mushroom spores, it is important to approach these experiments with caution. Introducing unknown substances, even natural ones like mushrooms, can have unintended consequences for the health and well-being of the cows. Additionally, the type of food and feeding mechanism can influence the microbial composition of the gastrointestinal tract, which can impact the environment when shed in the faeces of farm animals.
To summarize, while there may be speculation and anecdotal evidence about cattle feed and anti-mushroom strategies, the effectiveness and feasibility of these methods are questionable. Farmers appear to focus more on field management and spore control rather than altering cattle feed to prevent mushroom growth in manure. Additionally, any experimentation with seeding a cattle farm with mushroom spores should be approached with caution to avoid potential harm to the cows or the surrounding environment.
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Identifying mushrooms
While mushrooms growing on cow dung are often associated with the Psilocybe cubensis species, other species of mushrooms can also grow on or near cow dung. It is important to note that not all mushrooms that grow on cow dung are active or edible. Therefore, proper identification is crucial before consuming any wild mushrooms, as some can be poisonous or have adverse effects.
Psilocybe cubensis, commonly known as magic mushrooms, is a species of psilocybin mushroom that is widely distributed and easy to cultivate. They are often found on cow dung or nearby due to the ideal conditions provided for the growth of the fungus. The cow usually consumes grass or grains covered with the spores, and the fungus germinates within the dung. Psilocybe cubensis mushrooms typically bruise blue and can be identified by their veil, which can occasionally fall off, leaving a bare stem. They are also known as shrooms, golden halo, golden teacher, cube, or gold cap.
Another species of mushroom that grows on cow dung is Panaeolus antillarum. These mushrooms are edible but not psychoactive or psychedelic. They are often found in pastures and create nutrient-rich soil that supports the growth of various mushroom species.
To identify mushrooms, it is recommended to study pictures of the specific species you are seeking. Additionally, getting a spore print and examining the underside of the mushroom cap can aid in identification. Spore prints can be obtained by placing the mushroom cap downwards on a piece of paper or other suitable material, which will capture the colour and pattern of the spores.
It is important to exercise caution when identifying and consuming wild mushrooms. If you are unsure about the identity or safety of a mushroom, it is best to avoid consuming it.
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Frequently asked questions
Psilocybe cubensis, commonly known as magic mushrooms, are often found growing in cow dung.
No, not all mushrooms that grow on cow dung are psychedelic. While some species of mushrooms that grow on cow dung, such as Psilocybe cubensis, do contain psychoactive compounds like psilocybin and psilocin, other mushrooms that grow in similar conditions may not have these compounds. It is important to properly identify mushrooms before consumption.
Psychedelic mushrooms like Psilocybe cubensis grow on cow dung because the dung provides ideal conditions for the growth of the fungus. The cow usually consumes grass or grains covered with the spores of the fungus, and the spores germinate within the dung. Additionally, the dung provides a source of nutrients for the mushrooms to grow.
