Psilocybe weraroa

Weraroa novae zelandiae

Psilocybe weraroa is a species of secotioid fungus in the family Hymenogastraceae. This species is known for its psychoactive properties, primarily due to the presence of psilocybin and psilocin. It is native to New Zealand and is often found in deciduous forests and woodland areas.

Taxonomy

Psilocybe weraroa was first described by mycologist Gaston Guzmán in 1995. The species name "weraroa" is derived from the Māori word for the region where it was first discovered.

Description

Psilocybe weraroa has a distinct secotioid form, meaning it has a partially enclosed cap and stem. The cap is typically conical to bell-shaped and can vary in color from light brown to dark brown. The gills are not exposed, which differentiates it from other species in the genus Psilocybe.

Cap

The cap is 1-3 cm in diameter, conical to bell-shaped, and hygrophanous, changing color as it loses moisture. It is often sticky to the touch when wet.

Gills

The gills are adnate to adnexed, initially pale brown, becoming darker as the spores mature. They are not exposed due to the secotioid nature of the fungus.

Stipe

The stipe is 2-5 cm long, slender, and often curved. It is typically the same color as the cap or slightly lighter.

Spores

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

Habitat and Distribution

Psilocybe weraroa is found in New Zealand, particularly in deciduous forests and woodland areas. It grows on decaying wood, leaf litter, and other organic matter.

Psychoactive Properties

Psilocybe weraroa contains the psychoactive compounds psilocybin and psilocin, which are known to cause hallucinogenic effects. These compounds interact with the serotonin receptors in the brain, leading to altered perception, mood, and cognition.

Legal Status

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

See Also

• Psilocybe
• Psilocybin
• Psychoactive fungi
• Mycology