Psilocybe neoxalapensis

Psilocybe neoxalapensis Colexta

Psilocybe neoxalapensis 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 neoxalapensis was first described by mycologist Gastón Guzmán in 1995. It belongs to the genus Psilocybe, which includes other notable species such as Psilocybe cubensis and Psilocybe semilanceata.

Description

Cap

The cap of Psilocybe neoxalapensis is typically conical to convex, with a diameter ranging from 1 to 3 cm. The color of the cap can vary from a light brown to a darker brown, often with a hygrophanous nature, meaning it changes color as it loses moisture.

Gills

The gills are adnate to adnexed, closely spaced, and initially light brown, becoming darker as the spores mature.

Stipe

The stipe (stem) is slender, measuring 3 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 may exhibit a bluish bruising when handled.

Spores

The spores are dark purple-brown, ellipsoid, and measure approximately 10-13 by 6-8 micrometers.

Habitat and Distribution

Psilocybe neoxalapensis is primarily found in Mexico, particularly in the region of Oaxaca. It grows in deciduous forests, often in association with decaying wood and leaf litter. The fruiting season is typically during the rainy months from June to September.

Psychoactive Properties

Psilocybe neoxalapensis contains the psychoactive compounds psilocybin and psilocin, which are known to induce hallucinogenic effects. These effects can include altered perception of time and space, visual and auditory hallucinations, and profound changes in thought and mood.

Legal Status

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

See Also

• Psilocybe
• Psilocybin
• Psychedelic mushrooms
• Mycology