Psilocybe subcubensis is a species of fungus in the family Hymenogastraceae, closely related to the more famous Psilocybe cubensis. Although the two species are very similar, they differ in microscopic features, most notably the size of the spores.
Appearance and morphological features
Sub-Cuban coot is characterized by a hemispherical or bell-shaped hat, 1 to 5 cm in diameter. The hat is smooth, slippery in moist conditions, yellowish-brown in color, with a darker center. As it matures, it may become flatter, with gently wavy edges. The lamellae underneath the hat are initially light brown, and become almost black at full maturity.
The stem of the mushroom is elongated, hollow in the center, white or slightly yellowish. When the tissue is damaged, a blue coloration often appears in these areas, the result of oxidation of psilocybin, a psychoactive compound contained in the fungus.
Occurrence and habitat
Psilocybe subcubensis is mainly found in tropical and subtropical regions of the world, such as Central America, Southeast Asia and some areas of Australia and Oceania. It grows mostly on animal manure, especially cow manure, in moist and warm areas. Its habitat overlaps with the range of Psilocybe cubensis, further emphasizing their close affinity.
Active substances
The mushroom contains psychoactive compounds such as. psilocybin and psilocin, responsible for its psychedelic effects. However, in terms of psychoactive potential, Psilocybe subcubensis is not significantly different from Psilocybe cubensis, and the two species have a similar chemical profile.
Role in science and culture
Psilocybe subcubensis is less well known and studied than other species in the genus Psilocybe, such as Psilocybe cubensis, Psilocybe semilanceata (lanceolate coot) or Psilocybe azurescens. Its importance in scientific and clinical research is marginal, and most of the attention in the context of psychedelic therapies is focused on more common species. Nevertheless, as a mycological curiosity, Psilocybe subcubensis is of interest to a narrow range of researchers and enthusiasts.
Polish name
Proposed Polish name - subcuban coot - refers both to its relationship to Psilocybe cubensis and to the Latin name of the species (sub means "under"). This is a logical and natural suggestion, which is part of the tradition of Polish mushroom naming.
Summary
Psilocybe subcubensis, although less well known and less prominent in psychedelic research, remains an interesting example of the diversity of psychoactive fungi. Its close affinity to Psilocybe cubensis means that it is often mistaken for the more common species, but its unique microscopic features allow the two species to be clearly distinguished.