With the coming of spring, many mushroom pickers eagerly set out to the forest in search of the first specimens. However, among the emerging fungi is hidden Chestnuts (Gyromitra esculenta) – highly poisonous speciesWhich, by its appearance, can confuse even experienced mushroomers. Misidentification of this fungus can lead to serious wellness consequences and even death.
Chestnut breadling and edible wisdom – dangerous similarity
Chestnut bread is frequently confused with sage (Morchella esculenta), valued for its taste qualities. Both species appear at the same time – from April to June – and like akin habitats, which increases the hazard of confusion. However, while the marauder is simply a delicate delicacy, the pedigree contains gyromitrine – a toxin possibly lethal.
How do you admit chestnut pear?
The chestnut breadling has the following characteristics:
- Hat: Irregular, foldable, reminiscent of brain folds, colour from yellow brown to dark brown.
- Stock: Short, frequently hidden in a litter, with a whitish or creamy colour.
- Inside the fruiter: Empty, with many chambers.
For comparison, the edible margin has:
- Hat: Conical or egg-shaped, with regular, mesh-like recesses, resembling a honeycomb, in colours ranging from greyish to yellowish brown.
- Stock: Clearly visible, white or creamy, smooth.
- Inside the fruiter: Completely empty.
Chestnut pox toxicity
The consumption of chestnut pelagic is highly dangerous. Included gyromitrine After ingestion, it metabolizes to monomethylhydrazine (MMH), a toxic substance for the tense system, liver and kidney. Symptoms of poisoning may include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhoea
- Dizziness
- Convulsions
- A coma
What's more, toxic fumes may be released during the cooking of the dogpen, meaning that even inhalation can lead to poisoning. Gyromitrine is besides considered a substance Carcinogenic.
The occurrence of chestnut pistachio in Poland
The chestnut piery is widespread in Poland. Prefers coniferous forests, especially pinewhere it grows on sandy soils, frequently close tree trunks and between their roots. It is found in both lowland areas and in lower mountain areas.
Controversies around the consumption of chestnut pedigree
Despite clear evidence of toxicity, in any countries chestnut pox is treated as a delicacy. conventional preparation methods include repeated cooking and drying to reduce the gyromitrin content. However, studies indicate that these processes do not completely destruct toxins and the hazard of poisoning remains high.
Recommendations for fungitors
- Avoid picking mushrooms with uncertain identification: If you are absolutely unsure that the fungus is edible, leave it in the woods.
- Consult with experts: In case of doubt, consult your finds with experienced mushroomers or specialists.
- Remember to defend species: In Poland edible sage is subject to partial protection, meaning a ban on its collection in state forests.
Spring mushroom harvesting may be a pleasant experience, but it carries the hazard of poisonous species specified as Chestnuts. Its resemblance to edible smartness makes it easy to make a tragic mistake.
Continued here:
There were poisonous mushrooms in the woods. Experts appeal: don't collect them!
