Most confusion arises with mushrooms that have stems and caps, as well as some particularly eye-catching varieties. Regarding carpophores - other types of fungi that don't have this standard shape - you should pay special attention to those resembling brains or intestines. These are not only highly toxic but can even be lethal.
Particular caution should be taken with the Death Cap (Amanita phalloides), as it's deadly, grows in all types of woodland, and can easily be mistaken for a common mushroom.
To determine whether mushrooms are edible or not, you need to conduct a detailed examination. Follow these steps (though we recommend going with a mycology expert for your first time).
Parts of the mushroom you should examine:
1. Hymenium. This is the most protected part of the mushroom, located just under the cap. Avoid species with lamellae (gills) or tubes. Those with spine-like or folded structures are non-toxic.
2. Stem breaks. Examine how the mushroom flesh breaks. If it breaks with a fibrous, elongated pattern, it's inedible; those that break in a granular pattern pose no risk.
3. Spore print colours. This can be tricky to determine, but if they're white, black, pink or brown, be extremely cautious - especially with pink or brown spored varieties.
4. Gill arrangement. Note whether the gills run down the stem (decurrent) or up it, and whether the stem is detachable. In both cases, some mushrooms are edible while others aren't, so consult an expert.
5. Veil. The veil develops as the mushroom grows, forming a protective membrane. Some fall away while others remain as volvas, warts, rings or cortinas. As before, toxicity varies case by case.
Mushroom Myths
Many people make dangerous assumptions when foraging, such as:
- If a silver object tarnishes when touched by a mushroom, it's poisonous. False - this isn't always reliable, as it might simply be inedible or actually edible, depending on the species.
- If the mushroom stew darkens, they're poisonous. Untrue. This equally depends on the species.
- If they change colour when cut, they're toxic. Incorrect - varieties like saffron milk caps (Lactarius deliciosus) change colour and are completely harmless delicacies.
- If an animal eats a mushroom unharmed, I'll be fine too. False - our metabolisms are completely different.
- If I soak mushrooms in salt or vinegar, the poison will disappear. Wrong - the toxins remain.
- If I pick mushrooms from the same spot every year, they'll always be safe. False - poisonous species may appear.
Remember: always go with experts!
*Mushroom typology photography courtesy of the Government of Navarre
