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Mycena pink belongs to the Mycena family, the genus Mycena. In common parlance, this species is called pink. The mushroom got its nickname due to the pinkish color of the hat, which makes it very attractive. However, you should be careful with this instance. Despite the delicate and completely edible appearance, it contains toxic substances, which is why this mushroom is not recommended for consumption. Below is detailed information about one-time mycena: what it looks like, where it grows, how to distinguish it from twins.
What do pink mycenas look like?
The fruiting body consists of a cap and a stem 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. With maturation and aging, the cap becomes convex or prostrate. It is painted in a pink tint, the yellowish-ocher color is characteristic of old fruits, lighter towards the edges, and saturated in the center. The surface is smooth, radially ribbed, watery-transparent.
- Mycena pink has a cylindrical leg, slightly widened at the base. Its length reaches about 10 cm, and the 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, rare, white or pale pink. With age, grow to the leg.
- Spores are colorless, ellipsoid, amyloid, the size of which is 5-7 x 3-4 microns. Spore powder is white.
- The flesh is thin, white, closer to the surface you can notice a slight pinkish tint. It is characterized as a mushroom with a rare smell and inexpressive taste.
Where do pink mycenae grow?
The optimal time for fruiting is from July to November. In the southern part of Our Country, an active growth of pink mycena 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 both singly and in small groups.
Is it possible to eat pink mycenae
Most experts classify this species as a poisonous mushroom. It is worth noting that the composition of mycena pink contains the element muscarine, which can cause severe poisoning if ingested. Some publications indicate that this species has a weak toxicity, and therefore is considered harmless to the human body. However, it is not recommended to use pink mycena for food. In addition, it should be alert that there are no facts of use and various recipes for preparing dishes based on this ingredient.
If this ingredient is used, the poison should be removed from the body and contact a medical facility where the victim can receive the necessary course of treatment.
Similar species
A huge number of various mushrooms are concentrated in the forest, some of them are similar in certain characteristics to pink mycena. Twins include the following:
- Mycena pure. It is inedible, like the entire Micenov family. The hat can be painted white, pink or purple. The double has a bell cap at a young age, then straightens out, but the upper part remains convex. It is this feature that distinguishes pure mycena from pink.
- Lilac varnish. The shape resembles the species in question. The surface is smooth, painted in lilac color, with age it acquires a whitish or buffy hue. You can distinguish this specimen from pink mycena by the convex area on the hat. In addition, the double has a pleasant smell and delicate taste. It is considered conditionally edible.
Conclusion
Despite the fact that pink mycena looks gentle and attractive, it is not recommended to eat it. The tissues of this fungus contain muscarine-like alkaloids, as well as hallucinogenic elements of the indole group. The above substances, when ingested, can cause poisoning and provoke visual and auditory hallucinations.