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Torq

Agaricus bitorquis

A species of Agaricus, Also known as Banded agaric, Sidewalk mushroom, Spring agarcus

The torq (Agaricus bitorquis) is a white-capped agaric that bears a resemblance to, and is closely related to, the commonly-eaten button mushroom (Agaricus bisporus). This hardy, generalist species does well even in urban environments - their white fruiting bodies can be seen poking up through woodchips, mulch, sidewalk cracks, and even asphalt.

Cap Diameter:

4 - 15 cm

Odor:

Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.

General Info About Torq

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Attributes of Torq

Cap Diameter

4 - 15 cm

Height

5 - 12 cm

Cap

Cap 4 - 11 cm; convex, flat; whitish; dry, bald; not yellowing when rubbed repeatedly

Cap Shape

Convex, Flat

Cap Surfaces

Smooth, Fibrillose-scaly

Gills

Free; close or crowded; pinkish, brown

Gill Attachment

Free

Stem

Stem 2 - 6 cm long, 1 - 3 cm thick; very tough, equal or tapering to base; whitish to brownish ;bald or finely roughened; not bruising

Stem Shapes

Cylindrical

Stem Surfaces

Smooth

Flesh

White; firm; unchanging when sliced, or rarely turning slightly reddish

Ring

Tightly sheathing; white

Ring

With Ring

Spore Print Color

Dark brown

Odor

Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.

Body Color

Brown

White

Flesh Bruises

Discolor to pink or red

Growth Form

Solitary, Scattered, Gregarious

Nutrient Gathering

Saprophytic

Substrate

On soil

You can find Torq by these plants:

Oaks, Pines

Occurence Habitats

Disturbed Lands

Species Status

Least Concern

Endangered Species

How to Identify Torq

Fruiting Body Cap Flesh

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Habitat of Torq

The torq can be found in urban areas and disturbed ground; it grows along roads and well-worn paths, in parks, vacant lots, ditches, near curbs, on edges of pavement, or it can be found arising through cracks in asphalt and concrete.

Uses of Torq

Torq is a highly valued edible mushroom, appreciated for its firm texture and savory taste. It is popular in culinary practices, often used in dishes for its flavor-enhancing qualities. Torq can be found during its fruiting season and collected for both personal consumption and commercial sale. While it's generally safe to eat, like all mushrooms, proper identification is crucial to avoid confusion with toxic species. It does not carry any medicinal or hallucinogenic properties.

Scientific Classification of Torq

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Gilled fungi

Family

Agaricaceae

Genus

Agaricus

Toxicity and Edibility of Torq

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Edibility of Torq

Torq is a commonly cultivated, edible mushroom species, which some consider one of the best Agaricus mushrooms for culinary uses. It is a close cousin to the common white button mushroom seen in most grocery stores, and similar in culinary use. The caps are firm and can be sauteed, boiled, or baked.

Similar Species to Torq

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Death angel

Similar Species

Torq

How to Differentiate Between Death angel and Torq?

Torq: Gills start off pink, becoming chocolate-brown.

Death angel: Gills are white and remain so.

Torq: Lacks a volva at the base.

Death angel: Possesses a white, sack-like volva.

California agaricus

Similar Species

Torq

How to Differentiate Between California agaricus and Torq?

Torq: Minimal or no color change when bruised.

California agaricus: Bruising causes a yellow coloration.

Torq: Odor not distinctive or mildly nutty.

California agaricus: Phenolic or unpleasant chemical odor is present.

Tips for Finding Torq

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When is the Best Time to Find Torq

Search for torq in late spring through autumn when temperatures are mild. Ideal conditions occur after rainfall, particularly when the ground is still moist but not waterlogged.

What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Torq

Prefer heavy, dry, often disturbed soils.

What are Some Tips for Finding Torq

Search along footpaths, roadsides, and in parks where soil is compacted and frequently disturbed.
Look for torq in vacant lots and garden areas with bare soil or near curbs and ditches.
Inspect for torq emerging through cracks in concrete or gaps between paving slabs.
Check under trees and in manure-rich soil, where torq may be growing alone or in groups.
Be attentive to any small mounds or disruptions in the soil that could indicate torq pushing up from underground.

How to Clean and Preserve Torq

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How to Clean Torq

To clean torq, gently brush off any loose dirt or debris. If necessary, lightly rinse under cool, running water but avoid soaking as they can absorb moisture. Pat dry immediately to maintain their texture.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Torq

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying

Drying Duration

12 - 24 months

Store in a cool, dark place with low humidity and good ventilation to prevent reabsorption of moisture.

Dehydrator drying: Efficiently removes moisture at controlled temperatures, preventing spoilage and preserving texture.

Oven drying: Set to a low temperature with the door slightly open to mimic a dehydrator's controlled environment.

Air drying: Spread out in a well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight, suitable for areas with low humidity.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of Torq

Freezing Methods

Blanching Before Freezing

Freezing Duration

10 - 12 months

Blanching before freezing: Inactivate enzymes, maintain texture and quality.

Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Torq

Refrigerating Methods

Paper Bag Storage, Cloth Wrapping, Original Packaging Storage

Temperature

2 - 4 ℃

Refrigerating Humidity

90 - 95 %

Refrigerating Duration

5 - 7 days

Paper Bag Storage: Store mushrooms in paper bags to absorb excess moisture and allow for air circulation.

Cloth Wrapping: Encase mushrooms in a clean, dry cloth to protect from moisture while ensuring breathability.

Original Packaging Storage: Use the original packaging specially designed for delicate mushrooms, maintaining their integrity.

Common Questions People Also Ask

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What does torq smell like?

Where does torq found?

Is torq dangerous?

How does torq grow?

More Mushrooms That Are Similar to Torq

Salt-loving mushroom

Agaricus bernardii

Button mushroom

Agaricus bisporus