Conocybe smithii

Conocybe smithii is a rare member of the genus Conocybe which contains the hallucinogenic alkaloid psilocybin. It is formerly known as Galera cyanopes.

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Description

Conocybe smithii is a small saprophytic mushroom less then 75 mm tall with a conic to convex cap with a distinct umbo. The cap is smooth and colored rusty brown, glistening when wet. It is usually less than 13 mm across and is striate. The gills are adnate to adnexed and colored pale brown with whitish edges, darkening to rusty brown in age. The spores are cinnamon brown, smooth and ellipsoid with thick walls and a germ pore, measuring 8 x 5 micrometres. The stem is fragile, pure white and smooth, 20 to 75 mm long, 1 mm thick, and is equal width for most of the length, often swelling to 1.5 mm at the base. The stem lacks an annulus (ring) and when picked the stem is usually already an azure shade of blue at the bulbous base.

The cap color lightens when it dries, turning a tan color.

Distribution and habitat

Conocybe smithii often grows in bogs, ditches and swampy areas, commonly in sphagnum moss. Also found along river banks and in lawns.

It is known to occur in Canada, Oregon, Wisconsin, Washington, and Michigan, but is probably more widely distributed.

On the west coast, Conocybe smithii is an early summer mushroom, almost never appearing after the first week of June.

Edibility

Mildly hallucinogenic, containing psilocin, psilocybin, and baeocystin. Most mycologists recommend against eating this mushroom because it is difficult to distinguish from poisonous species.

References

• Conocybe smithii microscopy composite photo
• Conocybe smithii info and photos - Czech
• Conocybe smithii photo
• A Worldwide Geographical Distribution of the Neurotropic Fungi