Psilocybe natalensis - Natalian coot - is a species of psychoactive mushroom discovered in South Africa, in the KwaZulu-Natal province. This fungus belongs to the family Hymenogastraceae and is closely related to the popular Psilocybe cubensis, although it shows marked differences in morphology and potency.
The Polish name for this species has not yet been established, but one may encounter a descriptive term, such as "Natal coot" or "Natal coot," based on the region from which it originated.
Morphological characteristics
- Hat:
- Size: 2 to 8 cm in diameter.
- Shape: Initially hemispherical, later flattened, often with a pronounced hump.
- Color: Light brown or golden brown, with a tendency to bluish after damage.
- Surface: Smooth, sometimes slightly sticky in wet conditions.
- Tinsel:
- Dense, clinging to the shaft.
- Color: Light brown in youth, purplish brown with age.
- Core:
- Length: 5-15 cm.
- Thickness: 0.5-2 cm.
- Texture: fibrous, hollow, white or cream, bluish to the touch.
- Spores:
- Shape: Ellipsoidal or almond-shaped.
- Color: Purple-brown.
- Size: 11-13 × 7-8 µm.
Occurrence
- Region: South Africa, particularly the KwaZulu-Natal province.
- Environment: The fungus prefers soils rich in organic matter and sites enriched with animal manure. It is often found in humid, tropical conditions.
- Season: It grows mainly during the rainy season.
Psychoactive effects
Psilocybe natalensis contains psilocybin and psilocin - Psychoactive alkaloids that affect the serotonin system. This species is considered more potent than Psilocybe cubensis, and its effects include:
- Intense perceptual changes (e.g., color intensification, pattern vision).
- Enhanced introspection.
- Changes in mood - from euphoria to reflection and meditative states.
Cultural and scientific significance
- Culture: Although there is no detailed evidence of its traditional use, psilocybin mushrooms in South Africa may have been used in spiritual practices by local communities.
- Science: Psilocybe natalensis is being studied for use in the treatment of treatment-resistant depression, PTSD and addiction. It is also the subject of research in biodiversity and fungal adaptation to harsh environments.
Trivia
- Bruising: Like other Psilocybe species, this fungus turns blue when damaged due to psilocybin oxidation.
- Resilience: It is more resistant to harsh environmental conditions than Psilocybe cubensis, making it a unique species in the region.
Legal and informational rule
The information presented in this article is only educational and are not an incentive to obtain, cultivate or consume the mushroom species described. In many countries, psilocybin and mushrooms containing it are regulated - local laws should always be followed.
Sources
"Species diversity of the genus Psilocybe". International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms.
Guzmán, G. et al. (2000). "New Taxonomic Contributions to the Genus. Psilocybe„.
Stamets, P. (1996). Psilocybin Mushrooms of the World. This Speed Press.
MycoBank Database - Psilocybe natalensis. mycobank.org