Gyromitra gigas - Строчок гигантский - Snowbank False Morel

Gyromitra gigas - Строчок гигантский - Snowbank False Morel - Riesen-Lorchel 5/8-15/15

Gyromitra gigas, commonly known as the Snowbank False Morel or Riesen-Lorchel in German, is a species of fungus belonging to the family Discinaceae. It is characterized by its large, brain-like or lobed cap, which can reach up to 15 cm in diameter and 20 cm in height. The cap of G. gigas is reddish-brown to dark brown, with irregularly-shaped lobes that often form deep, convoluted folds or wrinkles. The surface of the cap is smooth or slightly wrinkled, with a somewhat waxy or gelatinous texture. The stipe, or stem, of G. gigas is relatively thick and stout, measuring up to 5 cm in diameter and 15 cm in height. It is usually white or light tan in color and may be chambered or hollow inside. Gyromitra gigas is typically found in the Northern Hemisphere, particularly in North America, Europe, and Asia. It grows in association with coniferous trees, especially spruce, fir, and pine. The fungus is commonly found in montane regions, where it emerges from melting snowbanks during the spring, hence its common name Snowbank False Morel. The spores of G. gigas are ellipsoid, measuring approximately 20-28 x 10-14 micrometers. They are brownish in color and have a rough, ornamented surface. Gyromitra gigas is known to produce the toxic compound gyromitrin, which can be hydrolyzed into the highly toxic and volatile compound monomethylhydrazine (MMH). Ingestion of G. gigas can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and in severe cases, liver and kidney damage or even death. Despite its toxicity, some people have consumed G. gigas after thorough cooking, as heat can break down gyromitrin into less harmful compounds. However, consumption of this mushroom is not recommended due to the risk of poisoning. Gyromitra gigas can be easily confused with the true morels (Morchella spp.), which are highly prized edible mushrooms. Careful identification is crucial to avoid accidental ingestion of the toxic Snowbank False Morel. The Snowbank False Morel is not a well-studied species, and further research is needed to better understand its biology, distribution, and ecological significance.