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Gymnopilus junonius is a large orange-brown mushroom typically found growing on wood. It contains psychoactive compounds, specifically psilocybin and psilocin. The species is widespread and can be found in various regions, often in clusters on decaying logs or tree stumps. Its toxicity is primarily due to the psychoactive compounds it contains, which can cause altered states of consciousness if ingested.
How to Identify
- Cap
- Orange-brown, dry surface, may have scales or fibers, convex to flattened shape, often with a central bump (umbo).
- Gills
- Close, adnate to subdecurrent, orange-brown, may stain darker with age.
- Stem
- Orange-brown, dry, fibrous, may have a fragile ring.
- Flesh
- Orange-brown, may stain darker when cut.
- Fruiting body
- Large, orange-brown mushroom growing in clusters on wood.
- Habitat
- Decaying logs and tree stumps in wooded areas.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Dry, may have scales or fibers
- Growth Form: Clustered
- Spore Print: Rusty brown
- Body color: Orange-brown
- Odor: Mild to pungent
- Flesh bruises: May stain darker
- Height: 5-20 cm
- Cap Diameter: 5-20 cm
- Nutrient gathering: Saprophytic
Toxic
Severe ToxicityContains psilocybin and psilocin, which are psychoactive compounds.
Quick Check
- Odor: Mild to pungent
- Fruiting: Grows in clusters on wood
- Substrate: Decaying wood
Where to Find
Wood
Decaying logs and tree stumps
Group Habitat
Found in clusters
Geographic Location
Prefers temperate regions
Finding Tips
Cap Appearance
Look for orange-brown mushrooms with a dry cap surface.
Taste Test
Check for a bitter taste if you are confident in your identification skills.
Habitat
Search on decaying wood in wooded areas.
Similar Species
Yellow Gymnopilus
mushroom
Also known as: Gymnopilus luteus
Big Laughing Gym
mushroom
Also known as: Gymnopilus spectabilis
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Basidiomycota
- Class
- Agaricomycetes
- Order
- Agaricales
- Family
- Hymenogastraceae
- Genus
- Gymnopilus
Explore Laughing Gym, Laughing Jim
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