Gyromitra esculenta - Строчок обыкновенный - False Morel

Gyromitra esculenta - Строчок обыкновенный - False Morel - Lorchel 4/19/19—5/3/20

Gyromitra esculenta, commonly known as the False Morel or Lorchel in German, is a species of fungus belonging to the family Discinaceae. It is characterized by its large, irregularly shaped cap, which often resembles a brain, and can reach up to 12 cm in diameter and 10 cm in height. The cap color ranges from reddish-brown to dark brown, with the surface being wrinkled or folded. The texture of the cap is dry and somewhat brittle, with a velvety or suede-like feel. The stipe, or stem, of G. esculenta is thick and stout, measuring up to 4 cm in diameter and 10 cm in height. It is typically white or cream-colored and may be chambered or hollow inside. Gyromitra esculenta can be found across the Northern Hemisphere, including North America, Europe, and Asia. It typically grows in association with coniferous and deciduous trees, such as pines, firs, and aspens. This fungus prefers well-drained soils and can often be found in sandy or gravelly areas, as well as in burned or disturbed habitats. The spores of G. esculenta are ellipsoid, measuring approximately 18-22 x 10-12 micrometers. They are brownish in color and have a rough, ornamented surface. Gyromitra esculenta is known to produce the toxic compound gyromitrin, which can be hydrolyzed into the highly toxic and volatile compound monomethylhydrazine (MMH). Ingestion of G. esculenta 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. esculenta 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 esculenta 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 False Morel. G. esculenta has been studied for its potential use in bioremediation, as it has shown the ability to absorb heavy metals from contaminated soils. In some regions, Gyromitra esculenta has been used as a traditional medicine to treat various ailments, although its safety and efficacy are not well-established.