Collecting mushrooms: Old species are so dangerous for beginners!

Collecting mushrooms: Old species are so dangerous for beginners!

Autumn is mushroom time! There is a lot to discover in the forests around Cologne and beyond. Dagmar Detloff-Scheff, an experienced mushroom expert from the Duchy of Lauenburg, highlights the importance of mushrooms for the ecosystem in her current focus and gives valuable tips for newcomers to mushroom collecting. Not only is she active in the local forest or mapping all mushrooms in Schleswig-Holstein together with the Mycology Working Group, but she also ensures that the public is made aware of important topics relating to mushrooms. In a recent warning, she points out that old mushrooms can be harmful to health.

“Without fungi, our forests would hardly be viable,” explains Detloff-Scheff. “They play an essential role in the decomposition of organic material and ensure that nature is returned to its cycle.” This confirms what various mycologists have also highlighted: mushrooms are not only diverse, but also essential for the well-being of our planet. Particular emphasis is placed on the role of mycorrhizae - these are symbiotic relationships between fungi and plants that ensure their water and mineral supply and promote the spread of plant communities. According to the DGFM, many animal species, including herbivorous vertebrates, have a similar dependence on fungi.

Tips for mushroom harvesting

However, if you feel like going mushroom hunting yourself, you should exercise caution. Beginners should limit themselves to tubular mushrooms, which are easier to recognize. Detloff-Scheff particularly recommends collecting fresh mushrooms; This is especially true for porcini mushrooms, which are great as a meat substitute. “Old mushrooms, on the other hand, should be avoided at all costs, especially if they show signs of mold such as gold mold,” she warns.

Another important topic in the discussion is poisonous mushrooms. The green death cap mushroom is one of the most dangerous representatives in Germany. With toxins that are difficult to detect, these mushrooms can cause serious health problems. Detloff-Scheff recommends taking part in guided mushroom hikes to better familiarize yourself with the subject. Your next hike will take place on October 10th in Schönwalde am Bungsberg, followed by another tour on October 12th in the Ritzerauer Forest, although participation is subject to a fee.

The fascination of mycology

Files from the fungi kingdom are still relatively unexplored. It is estimated that there are around 5 million species of fungi, of which only around 80,000 have been scientifically described. The field of mycology, i.e. the science of fungi, is at the interface of many scientific disciplines - from ecology to microbiology. Thanks to their ability to recycle organic matter, fungi make a significant contribution to the health of the ecosystem and are also extremely important for agriculture.

But fungi are not only active as secondary decomposers, they can also act as parasites. This dynamic is crucial for species diversity in different habitats. Despite their importance, many species are threatened with extinction, which makes the work of experts like Detloff-Scheff particularly valuable: “It is extremely important that we expand our knowledge about fungi and their importance for the environment and at the same time raise awareness among the wider public,” she emphasizes.

Conclusion: Mushroom picking can be a wonderful way to enjoy nature while protecting biodiversity. But the necessary knowledge is a prerequisite to be able to safely use the beauty of the mushrooms. So stay curious and pay attention!