This is an old revision of this page, as edited by Ellmist (talk | contribs) at 00:47, 16 November 2002 (image). The present address (URL) is a permanent link to this revision, which may differ significantly from the current revision.
Revision as of 00:47, 16 November 2002 by Ellmist (talk | contribs) (image)(diff) ← Previous revision | Latest revision (diff) | Newer revision → (diff)A mushroom is the fruiting body of a fungus (typically meaning a basidiomycete), the part of the fungus that is designed to release spores into the air. It is an extension of the mycelium in the substrate. Since the visible mushroom is only the fruit, and not the whole organism, mushrooms will regrow given enough time and if the fungus survives. The cells that make up mushrooms are called hyphae.
Mushrooms are used extensively in cooking in many cuisines. However, many mushrooms are poisonous, and eating them can be fatal. Picking your own wild mushrooms is extremely risky and a practice not to be undertaken by amateurs. Mushrooms and other fungi are studied by mycologists.
Psilocybin mushrooms possess hallucinogenic properties and are commonly known as "'shrooms". A number of other mushrooms are eaten for their psychoactive effects, including Fly Agaric.
Crinipellis perniciosa mushroom thumbnail
Larger Crinipellis perniciosa mushroom image
