Psilocybe makarorae

Psilocybe makarorae on moss 2021

Psilocybe makarorae 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

Psilocybe makarorae was first described by mycologist Gaston Guzmán in 1995. It belongs to the genus Psilocybe, which contains many other species of psychoactive mushrooms.

Description

Cap

The cap of Psilocybe makarorae is typically conical to convex, often with a slight umbo. It measures between 1 to 3 cm in diameter. The color ranges from a light brown to a darker brown when moist, and it often fades to a lighter color as it dries.

Gills

The gills are adnate to adnexed, and they are initially light brown, becoming darker as the spores mature. The gill edges are often whitish.

Stipe

The stipe (stem) is slender, measuring 4 to 8 cm in length and 0.1 to 0.3 cm in thickness. It is typically the same color as the cap or slightly lighter, and it may bruise blue when handled.

Spores

The spores of Psilocybe makarorae are dark purplish-brown, ellipsoid, and measure approximately 10-13 by 6-8 micrometers.

Habitat and Distribution

Psilocybe makarorae is found in New Zealand, particularly in the South Island. It typically grows in deciduous forests, often in association with Nothofagus species. The fruiting bodies appear in late spring to early autumn.

Psychoactive Properties

Psilocybe makarorae contains the psychoactive compounds psilocybin and psilocin, which are known to cause hallucinations, altered perception of time, and changes in mood. These effects are similar to those produced by other psilocybin mushrooms.

Legal Status

The legal status of Psilocybe makarorae varies by country. In many places, the possession, sale, and use of psilocybin-containing mushrooms are regulated or prohibited.

See Also

• Psilocybe
• Psilocybin mushrooms
• Psychedelic drug
• Mycology