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Split gill

Schizophyllum commune

A species of Schizophyllum, Also known as Gillies

Split gill(Schizophyllum commune) can be found across the globe. Uniquely, it is the only mushroom species known to display the capability to retract by movement. It is considered inedible, although not necessarily toxic. Furthermore, it is not recommended to smell this species, as the spores are capable of sprouting and growing in nasal passages.

Cap Diameter:

1 - 4 cm

Odor:

Mildly earthy, not particularly distinctive.

General Info About Split gill

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Attributes of Split gill

Cap Diameter

1 - 4 cm

Height

1 - 6 cm

Cap

Cap 1 - 4 cm across; fan-shaped, shell-shaped; whitish to grayish or brownish

Cap Surfaces

Fibrillose-scaly, Velvety

Gills

Distant; folded together and appearing split down the middle; whitish to grayish

Stem

Absent

Flesh

Thin; tough and leathery; whitish; not changing when sliced

Spore Print Color

White

Odor

Mildly earthy, not particularly distinctive.

Body Color

Brown

Gray

White

Flesh Bruises

The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.

Growth Form

Solitary, Clustered, Gregarious

Nutrient Gathering

Saprophytic

Substrate

Dead Woods, Wood of Living Trees

You can find Split gill by these plants:

European beech

Occurence Habitats

Deciduous Woodland, Disturbed Lands

Species Status

Widely distributed

Endangered Species

How to Identify Split gill

Fruiting Body Cap Gills

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Habitat of Split gill

The split gill grows in deciduous woods and wooded areas. It is a mushroom-forming fungus that prefers rotten wood, so it's often found on deadwood, fallen branches, or even cut timber.

Distribution Area of Split gill

North America,Europe,Africa,Central and South America,Asia,Australia,New Zealand

Hunting Values of Split gill

Young ones can be eaten, but some people reported gastrointestinal discomfort after eating.

Uses of Split gill

Split gill is recognized for its edibility with precautions due to potential allergenic properties. It's not widely popular as a food source, but it finds use in certain local cuisines after careful preparation. Its collection value is modest; however, those who gather split gill must be aware of the correct preparation methods to avoid adverse reactions. While it may be available seasonally, split gill should be consumed responsibly and sparingly, considering its safety risks.

Scientific Classification of Split gill

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Gilled fungi

Family

Schizophyllaceae

Genus

Schizophyllum

Toxicity and Edibility of Split gill

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Is Split gill Toxic?

Split gill is a species typically found in variable environments, in various seasons. Recognized by its unique morphology, caution is advised due to its allergenic properties.

Type of poisoning

Allergic

Toxic Severity

Low toxicity

Incubation Period

0.5-24 hours

Poisoning Symptoms

Individual responses to a mushroom allergy can differ widely, with reactions spanning from slight to intense, including skin rashes, itching, swelling in the mouth, stomach upset, and respiratory issues. In severe cases, it can lead to anaphylaxis, which requires immediate medical attention.

Edibility of Split gill

The split gill is a small mushroom with a rubbery texture but a fairly bland taste. In spite of these traits, these mushrooms are fairly popular in tropical areas, where their rubbery durability is actually seen as a plus. In northeastern India, they are popularly incorporated into paankam, a sort of savory pancake. They are also quite popular in tropical parts of Mexico.

Similar Species to Split gill

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Tips for Finding Split gill

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When is the Best Time to Find Split gill

Search for split gill after periods of rain when temperatures are consistently between 50-68°F (10-20°C). They thrive in higher humidity, so damp, overcast days are particularly good times to find them.

What are Some Tips for Finding Split gill

Examine decaying hardwood logs, sticks, and fallen branches that show signs of wood damage.
Look for clusters of gill-like structures on damaged trunks or dying branches of living trees.
Search in areas with stacked wood, such as woodpiles or cut branches, where split gill may appear.
Inspect around barns or fields for plastic-wrapped bales, as split gill can emerge from cracks.
Be attentive to small shelf or bracket-like fungi on compromised wood; their unique split gills can confirm split gill.

How to Clean and Preserve Split gill

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How to Clean Split gill

To clean split gill, gently brush off any debris using a soft-bristled brush. Avoid soaking as it may damage the gills. Instead, quickly rinse under running water if necessary. Handle with care to maintain integrity.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Split gill

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying

Drying Duration

6 - 12 months

Store in airtight containers, in a cool, dark, dry place with low humidity and no direct sunlight.

Dehydrator drying: Rapid moisture removal, prevents spoilage, maintains quality, ideal for high water content.

Oven drying: Constant temperature, low humidity, effective with circulating air, quicker than air drying.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of Split gill

Freezing Methods

Blanching Before Freezing

Freezing Duration

10 - 12 months

Blanching before freezing: Enhances texture retention and reduces spoilage.

Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Split gill

Refrigerating Methods

Paper Bag Storage, Perforated Plastic Bag Storage, Container with Absorbent Lining

Temperature

2 - 4 ℃

Refrigerating Humidity

90 - 95 %

Refrigerating Duration

7 - 14 days

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

Perforated Plastic Bag Storage: Use perforated plastic bags for a balance of humidity and airflow, preventing condensation.

Container with Absorbent Lining: Place mushrooms in a container with a clean towel lining to soak up moisture and keep them dry.

Common Questions People Also Ask

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