Psilocybe banderillensis

Psilocybe.banderillensis.alan

Psilocybe banderillensis is a species of psilocybin mushroom in the family Hymenogastraceae. This species is known for its psychoactive properties, which are primarily due to the presence of psilocybin and psilocin.

Taxonomy and Naming

The species was first described by Guzmán in 1978. The specific epithet banderillensis refers to the region near Banderilla, Veracruz, Mexico, where the type specimen was collected.

Description

Cap

The cap of Psilocybe banderillensis is typically 1.5–3 cm in diameter, conical to convex in shape, and often has a slight umbo. The surface is smooth and hygrophanous, changing color as it loses moisture. When fresh, the cap is a reddish-brown color, becoming lighter as it dries.

Gills

The gills are adnate to adnexed, close, and initially pale brown, becoming dark purple-brown as the spores mature. The gill edges are often whitish.

Stipe

The stipe (stem) is 4–8 cm long and 0.2–0.4 cm thick, cylindrical, and often slightly enlarged at the base. It is whitish to brownish, with a fibrous texture. The stipe may bruise blue when handled, a characteristic feature of many psilocybin mushrooms.

Spores

The spores are dark purple-brown, ellipsoid, and measure 10–13 by 6–7 µm. They have a thick wall and a distinct germ pore.

Habitat and Distribution

Psilocybe banderillensis is typically found in montane regions, growing on decaying wood or in humus-rich soil. It is known to occur in the cloud forests of Veracruz, Mexico, at elevations between 1,200 and 1,800 meters.

Psychoactive Properties

The psychoactive effects of Psilocybe banderillensis are due to the presence of psilocybin and psilocin, which are tryptamine alkaloids. These compounds interact with serotonin receptors in the brain, leading to altered perception, mood, and cognition. The intensity and duration of the effects can vary depending on the dose and individual sensitivity.

Legal Status

The legal status of Psilocybe banderillensis varies by country. In many places, the possession, sale, and use of psilocybin mushrooms are regulated or prohibited. It is important to be aware of and comply with local laws regarding these substances.

See Also

• Psilocybe
• Psilocybin mushrooms
• Psychoactive fungi
• List of Psilocybe species