Content
Champignons are considered the most popular and famous mushrooms in the world, but not all varieties of this genus can be eaten. One of these is the variegated champignon, a member of the Champignon family, best known as the Möller champignon. It is considered a poorly studied and rare specimen and is classified as an inedible mushroom.
What does a variegated champignon look like?
The cap of this type is convex, the size varies from 5 to 15 cm. Most often it is painted in a light ocher or cream color. On the surface of the cap there are wide scales of a smoky gray or brown hue. Under the cap there are plates, the color of which depends on the age of the mushroom.So, in a young specimen they are pale pink, then gradually acquire a dark brown tint.
The mushroom has a stalk 6 to 10 cm long and 1 to 1.5 cm thick, with a large ring and an inflated base. Its lower part is covered with flake-like scales. A young variegated champignon has a white leg, an older one has a yellow leg, and an older specimen has a brown leg. The flesh of the champignon is variegated white in color and turns brown when cut. It emits an unpleasant aroma, reminiscent of the smell of rubber. Spores are broadly ellipsoid, 5.5×3.5 µm. Spore powder is dark brown in color.
Where does the variegated champignon grow?
The variegated champignon prefers a temperate climate. Most often it grows in mixed and deciduous forests, in gardens and parks, as well as in meadows. It is located on fertile, often alkaline soil. As a rule, it appears in the second half of summer in small groups. It is quite rare.
Is it possible to eat variegated champignon?
This species is classified as a poisonous mushroom, although its toxicity is not noted in some reference books. Nevertheless, the variegated champignon is considered to be inedible due to its unpleasant odor and possible negative consequences.
Symptoms of poisoning
Eating variegated champignon can cause poisoning; its main symptoms are the following:
- diarrhea and vomiting;
- headache;
- increased body temperature, chills;
- pain and cramps in the stomach;
- increased sweating.
First aid for poisoning
At the first signs of poisoning, it is necessary to eliminate the poison from the body as quickly as possible. To do this, it is recommended to take an absorbent or drink a couple of glasses of salt water and induce vomiting. This procedure must be repeated at least 2 times. You can use an enema to cleanse the intestines. After providing first aid, the victim must go to the hospital for full treatment in order to avoid serious problems in the future.
Conclusion
The variegated champignon is quite easily confused with its edible relatives. If the mushroom picker doubts the choice, then you can conduct a thermal test. To do this, you just need to put an unfamiliar specimen in boiling water. If, after immersion, the water acquires an orange tint and emits a sharp and unpleasant aroma, it means that the person has come across a rather rare and poisonous Miller. You should know that even after heat treatment, toxic substances remain in it, which can cause poisoning within 2 hours after its consumption.
