Content
Mycena rosea belongs to the Mycena family, genus Mycena. In common parlance, this species is called pink. The mushroom got its nickname due to the pinkish color of the cap, which makes it very attractive. However, you should be careful with this specimen. Despite its delicate and completely edible appearance, it contains toxic substances, which is why this mushroom is not recommended for consumption. Below is detailed information about single mycena: what it looks like, where it grows, how to distinguish it from its counterparts.
What do pink mycenae look like?
The fruit body consists of a cap and a stalk with the following characteristics:
- The diameter of the cap varies from 2.5 to 6 cm. At the initial stage of development, one has a conical shape with a small tubercle located in the center.As the cap matures and ages, it becomes convex or prostrate. It is painted in a pink tint; old fruits are characterized by a yellowish-ocher color, lighter towards the edges and richer in the center. The surface is smooth, radially ribbed, watery-transparent.
- Mycena rosea has a cylindrical stalk, slightly widened at the base. Its length reaches about 10 cm, and its thickness varies from 0.4 to 1 cm in diameter. Painted white or pink. The flesh of the leg is highly fibrous.
- The plates are wide, free, sparse, white or pale pink. With age they grow to the leg.
- The spores are colorless, ellipsoid, amyloid, the size of which is 5-7 x 3-4 microns. Spore powder is white.
- The pulp is thin, white, closer to the surface you can see a slightly pinkish tint. It is characterized as a mushroom with a rare smell and inexpressive taste.
Where do Mycena rosea grow?
The optimal time for fruiting is from July to November. In the southern part of Russia, active growth of mycena rosea has been observed since the beginning of May. It grows in deciduous and mixed forests, located among fallen old leaves. Most often found under beech or oak. It grows either singly or in small groups.
Is it possible to eat mycena rosea?
Most experts classify this species as a poisonous mushroom. It is worth noting that mycena rosea contains the element muscarine, which can cause severe poisoning if ingested. Some publications indicate that this species is slightly toxic and is therefore considered harmless to the human body. However, it is not recommended to use mycena rosea for food.In addition, it should be alarming that there are no facts of use and various recipes for preparing dishes based on this ingredient.
If you consume this ingredient, you should remove the poison from the body and contact a medical facility where the victim can undergo the necessary course of treatment.
Similar species
The forest contains a huge number of different mushrooms, some of which are similar in certain characteristics to mycena rosea. The following specimens can be classified as doubles:
- Mycena pure. It is inedible, like the entire Mitsenov family. The hat can be painted white, pink or purple. The double has a bell-shaped cap when young, then straightens out, but the upper part remains convex. It is this feature that distinguishes pure mycena from pink one.
- Lilac lacquer. The shape resembles the species in question. The surface is smooth, purple-colored, and with age acquires a whitish or ocher tint. This specimen can be distinguished from Mycena rosea by the convex area on the cap. In addition, the double has a pleasant smell and delicate taste. It is considered conditionally edible.
Conclusion
Despite the fact that pink mycena looks tender and attractive, it is not recommended to eat it. The tissues of this mushroom contain muscarinic-like alkaloids, as well as hallucinogenic elements of the indole group. The above substances, when consumed orally, can cause poisoning and provoke visual and auditory hallucinations.
