Conditionally edible mushrooms species

CONDITIONALLY EDIBLE MUSHROOMS SPECIES

There are a number of edible mushrooms that are considered choice by some and toxic by others. In some cases, proper preparation can remove some or all of the toxins.

Amanita muscaria is edible if parboiled to leach out toxins. Fresh mushrooms are hallucinogenic and may cause seizures or coma due to the presence of ibotenic acid.

Coprinopsis atramentaria is edible without special preparation. However, consumption with alcohol is toxic due to the presence of coprine. Some other Coprinus spp. share this property.

Gyromitra esculenta is eaten by some after it has been parboiled; however, mycologists do not recommend it. Raw Gyromitra are toxic due to the presence of gyromitrin, and it is not known if all of the toxin can be removed by parboiling.

Lactarius spp. - Apart from Lactarius delicious which is universally considered edible mushrooms, other Lactarius spp. that are considered toxic elsewhere in the world are eaten in Russia after pickling or parboiling.

Verpa bohimica - Considered choice by some, it even can be found for sale as a "morel", but cases of toxicity have been reported. Verpas contain toxins similar to gyromitrin and similar precautions apply.
edible mushrooms:oyster-mushroom-pleurotus-ostreatus

Oyster Mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus)

Edible Mushrooms: Oyster Mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus)

Description: Those hardy souls who take long winter walks are sometimes treated to the sight of a snow-capped mass of fresh oyster mushrooms growing on a tree or log.

This large white, tan or ivory-colored mushroom is named for its oyster shell-like shape. It has white gills running down a very short, off-center stem. Spores are white to lilac, and the flesh is very soft. Oyster mushrooms usually are found in large clusters of overlapping caps and always on wood. Size: 2" to 8" wide.

When and Where: Spring, summer, fall and during warm spells in winter. On trees and fallen logs.

Cautions: This mushroom has a number of look-alikes, (including Crepidotus and Lentinus spp.), but none are dangerous. they may, however, be woody or unpleasant-tasting. Check by tasting a small piece and by making a spore print. Watch out for the small black beetles which sometimes infest this mushroom.

Cooking Hints: Soak in salted water to remove bugs. Dip in beaten egg, roll in cracker crumbs and fry.
Edible Mushrooms.