Top 20 Most Common Toxic or Poisonous Mushrooms in Macedonia
Engulfed in diverse climates, Macedonia provides a rich breeding ground for various mushroom species. Among the assorted fungi flourish, however, lurks a set of 20 notorious poisonous varieties. Hence, for those drawn to the allure of mushroom hunting, distinguishing toxic species is of paramount importance. Our guide sheds light on how to safely hunt while avoiding the potentially lethal shrooms that reside within this scenic habitat, ensuring a safe and fruitful foraging experience.
* Disclaimer: Content feedback CAN NOT be used as any basis for EATING ANY PLANTS. Some plants can be VERY POISONOUS, please purchase edible plants through regular channels.
Most Common Toxic or Poisonous Mushrooms
1. Jack-o'lantern mushroom
The jack-o'lantern mushroom is so-called because of its bright orange color, and because it often appears in the fall (usually before Halloween, though). This vibrant little mushroom can be found growing on decaying hardwood stumps and logs. The species does have some superficial resemblances to the highly edible chanterelle (Cantharellus cibarius), but it is toxic and should be avoided!
2. Common earthball
With an appearance similar to a crusty potato, the common earthball blooms from acidic soils, including compacted paths on the forest floor. It matures to a yellowish tinge and is found across the northern hemisphere. It is a close cousin to bolete mushrooms but is considered to be poisonous and is never eaten.
3. Yellow patches
The yellow patches is a gorgeous, striking species with a deep marigold or vermillion cap that sometimes appears as a blend of the two. Like some other members of the Amanita genus, it also sports patchy white worts - when it's cap is still very convex, it somewhat resembles the famous white and red mushrooms from the Mario Bros video games. While beautiful to look at, this species is toxic and should not be harvested.
4. Brick cap
This tufting mushroom grows on hardwood stumps and deadwood. The brick cap seems particularly fond of oak wood. It is similar in most respects to the Sulfur Tuft or Conifer Tuft, except that its cap is a brick red color. Brick caps should be regarded as inedible and are likely to cause stomach problems if consumed.
5. False chanterelle
The common name of this mushroom refers to the fact that it looks very similar to the edible and highly prized Chanterelle. This species, however, tastes bitter and may cause poisoning symptoms. False chanterelle occurs around the northern hemisphere in autumn and winter, growing on coniferous detritus, and is more likely to fruit in dry conditions rather than the usual wet.
6. Black bulgar
The black bulgar is an unusual fungus that looks a bit like black gumdrops. While some authorities classify it in an "unknown edibility" group, others claim it's a poisonous mushroom. Either way, its unappealing appearance surely makes it an easy choice not to consume the black bulgar.
7. Angel wings
Angel wings(Pleurocybella porrigens) is a delicate, almost ethereal mushroom most commonly found on decaying conifer logs and stumps. In spite of its disarming name, this species is highly toxic and should not be consumed under any circumstances; once considered edible, it has been responsible for numerous deaths in Japan.
8. Cleft-footed amanita
The cleft-footed amanita is a North American mushroom species that was once classified as the notorious Amanita phalloides (the Death cap). Although later found to be less deadly, the cleft-footed amanita is a highly variable species that is not considered safe to forage for consumption.
9. Rufous rubber cup
The rufous rubber cup is a tiny, cup-shaped, reddish-brown mushroom that commonly grows on twigs and fallen branches. The species is considered inedible, and its modest look almost certainly wouldn't attract anyone to consume it.
10. Onion-stalk parasol mushroom
This generalist mushroom, found across North America, can be found in all sorts of moist woodland settings. The species appears to be particularly fond of wood chips or mulch, and so it is often found in garden or park settings. The onion-stalk parasol mushroom, despite the word "onion" in its name, is inedible.
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