Beware of false morels: Spring is not all funghi games
Spring mushroom hunting, despite the sunny weather, can be dangerous. Toxic false morels appear in the forests and are often mistaken for morels. How can you recognise them?
Spring is when morels appear in the forests, prized for their taste and high price. However, among them, you might encounter the dangerous false morel (Gyromitra esculenta). This toxic mushroom is often confused with the morel, which can lead to serious health consequences.
False morel - what kind of mushroom is it?
The false morel, or murchla, is a highly toxic mushroom. It contains gyromitrin, a toxin that can damage the liver, kidneys, and other organs. Consuming this mushroom can lead to serious health problems and even death. Therefore, forestry officials from the Czarnbór Forestry Department warn against picking it.
The false morel is particularly dangerous because its toxicity is not always immediately noticeable – the symptoms of poisoning may not appear until several hours or even days after consumption.
Morels and false morels - what are the differences?
Identifying the false morel is not easy, as it resembles the morel. Morels have fruiting bodies with honeycomb-like holes, while false morels have a more wrinkled surface. Its colour leans towards shades of red, distinguishing it from the brown and beige morels.
The smell of the false morel can be misleading, as it emits a pleasant aroma even though it contains toxic volatile substances. Symptoms of poisoning may appear even after several days and include headaches, abdominal pain, vomiting, and weakness. In the event of poisoning, prompt medical assistance is necessary.
It is important to remember that morels are protected and can only be collected in certain areas. Their price can reach up to £205 per kilogram, making them an attractive target for mushroom hunters. However, safety should be a priority during spring forest excursions.
