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Historical

Exploring the Legacy of Mycology Pioneers in the Adirondacks: William Murrill, George Martin, and Alexander H. Smith

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The Adirondacks has been the site of numerous important contributions to the field of mycology, with several historically significant mycologists conducting research in the region. In this blog post, we will highlight the work of three mycologists who made significant contributions to our understanding of the fungal diversity in the Adirondacks: William Murrill, George Martin and Alexander H. Smith.

William Murrill

William Murrill (1869-1957) was an American mycologist who is considered one of the pioneers of mycology in North America. Murrill was the first to document the fungal diversity of the Adirondacks, publishing a series of papers on the fungi of the region in the early 1900s. His most significant contribution was his publication, “The Polyporaceae of North America,” which remains an essential reference for mycologists today.

George Martin

George Martin (1907-1995) was another prominent mycologist who conducted research in the Adirondacks. Martin’s work focused on the taxonomy and ecology of fungi, and he was particularly interested in the diversity of mycorrhizal fungi in the region. Martin’s research contributed to the development of new methods for identifying and classifying fungi, and he authored several influential papers on the fungi of the Adirondacks.

Alexander H. Smith

Alexander H. Smith (1904-1986) was a renowned mycologist and one of the most influential figures in the field of mycology in the 20th century. Smith was a pioneer in the use of molecular methods for identifying and classifying fungi and was instrumental in the development of modern mycology. Smith conducted extensive research in the Adirondacks, publishing several papers on the fungal diversity of the region. His book, “The Mushroom Hunter’s Field Guide,” remains a classic reference for mushroom hunters and mycologists alike.

Conclusion

The Adirondacks has a rich history of mycological research, with several historically significant mycologists making important contributions to our understanding of the fungal diversity of the region. William Murrill, George Martin, and Alexander H. Smith are just a few examples of the many mycologists who have conducted research in the Adirondacks and contributed to the development of modern mycology. Their work highlights the importance of preserving the Adirondacks and other natural areas, which are home to diverse communities of fungi and other organisms.

Sources:

  • Smith, A. H. (1979). The mushroom hunter’s field guide. University of Michigan Press.
  • Martin, G. W. (1969). The mycota of the Adirondack Mountains. Mycologia, 61(6), 1197-1254.
  • Murrill, W. A. (1903). The Polyporaceae of North America. G. P. Putnam’s sons.
Observations

Discovering the Fungi of the Adirondack Park: Their Complex Relationships with Trees and Benefits to Ecosystems

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The Adirondack Park, located in upstate New York, is home to a diverse range of fungal species that interact with trees in complex ways. Fungi are essential components of forest ecosystems, playing a critical role in nutrient cycling and ecosystem functioning. In this blog post, we will explore the different types of fungi in the Adirondack Park and their relationships with trees, with a particular focus on the benefits that fungi provide to trees.

Types of Fungi in the Adirondack Park

The Adirondack Park is home to a wide range of fungal species, including decomposers, mycorrhizal fungi, and pathogenic fungi. Decomposers, such as the turkey tail fungus (Trametes versicolor) and the oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus), break down dead organic matter, such as fallen leaves and branches, into nutrients that can be recycled by other organisms. Mycorrhizal fungi, such as the Russula species, form mutually beneficial relationships with trees, providing them with essential nutrients, such as phosphorus and nitrogen, in exchange for carbon compounds produced by the tree through photosynthesis. Pathogenic fungi, such as the Armillaria mellea, can cause diseases that harm trees.

Benefits of Fungi to Trees

Mycorrhizal fungi provide numerous benefits to trees, including increased nutrient uptake, enhanced growth and survival, and improved tolerance to stress. In particular, mycorrhizal fungi can help trees access nutrients that are not readily available in the soil, such as phosphorus. This is particularly important in nutrient-poor soils, which are common in the Adirondack Park. Mycorrhizal fungi can also help trees tolerate environmental stresses, such as drought and pollution.

Decomposers also play an important role in nutrient cycling, as they break down dead organic matter into nutrients that can be used by trees and other organisms. By decomposing organic matter, fungi release nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, back into the soil. This helps maintain soil fertility and supports the growth of healthy trees.

Pathogenic fungi, while typically viewed as harmful to trees, can also have some benefits. For example, some pathogenic fungi may help trees fend off other pathogens by producing toxins that inhibit their growth. In addition, the presence of pathogens can stimulate the tree’s immune system, leading to increased disease resistance.

Conclusion

Fungi are critical components of the Adirondack Park ecosystem, playing important roles in nutrient cycling, soil health, and tree health. By forming beneficial relationships with trees, mycorrhizal fungi help ensure that trees are able to access the nutrients they need to grow and survive. Decomposers help to maintain soil fertility, while pathogenic fungi can actually benefit trees by stimulating their immune system. Overall, the diverse range of fungal species in the Adirondack Park is key to maintaining a healthy and functioning forest ecosystem.

References:

  • Cairney, J. W. G., & Meharg, A. A. (2002). Mycorrhiza in extreme environments: adaptations of mycorrhizal fungi to acid soils. In Mycorrhizal ecology (pp. 317-341). Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg.
  • Jones, M. D., Twieg, B. D., & Wardle, D. A. (2010). Controls on the formation and stability of rhizosphere soil organic matter in boreal forests. Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences, 115(G3).
  • Lindahl, B. D., & Tunlid, A. (2015). Ectom
Observations

Discovering the Medicinal Qualities of Maitake: A Powerful Mushroom from the Adirondacks

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Maitake, also known as “hen-of-the-woods” due to its striking appearance, is a medicinal mushroom found in the Adirondacks region of New York. With its therapeutic properties and unique flavor, maitake has become increasingly popular in the wellness industry. In this blog post, we will explore the medicinal qualities of maitake, its traditional uses, and the scientific evidence supporting its health benefits.

Maitake is a type of mushroom that grows in clusters at the base of oak trees in the Adirondack Mountains. The mushroom has a unique appearance, with overlapping brownish-gray caps that resemble the feathers of a hen. Maitake has been used in traditional Japanese and Chinese medicine for centuries to treat a variety of conditions, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and cancer.

One of the primary medicinal compounds found in maitake is beta-glucan, a type of polysaccharide that has been shown to have immunomodulatory effects. Beta-glucans are complex sugars that stimulate the immune system by activating immune cells, such as macrophages and natural killer cells. These immune cells play a critical role in fighting off infections and preventing the development of chronic diseases.

Maitake also contains ergothioneine, a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect the body against oxidative stress. Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the body’s ability to neutralize them with antioxidants. This can lead to cell damage, inflammation, and chronic diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and Alzheimer’s disease.

In addition to its immunomodulatory and antioxidant properties, maitake has been shown to have antidiabetic and anti-cancer effects. Studies have found that maitake can lower blood glucose levels in people with type 2 diabetes by increasing insulin sensitivity and improving glucose uptake in the cells. Maitake has also been shown to have anti-cancer effects by inhibiting the growth and spread of cancer cells.

A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that maitake extract inhibited the growth of breast cancer cells in mice. Another study published in the International Journal of Oncology found that maitake extract suppressed the growth of prostate cancer cells in vitro. While more research is needed to fully understand the anti-cancer effects of maitake, these preliminary studies suggest that maitake may have therapeutic potential in the treatment of cancer.

In conclusion, maitake is a medicinal mushroom found in the Adirondacks that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat a variety of conditions. Its primary medicinal compounds, beta-glucan and ergothioneine, have immunomodulatory and antioxidant properties that may help to prevent chronic diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular disease. While more research is needed to fully understand the health benefits of maitake, the existing evidence suggests that this unique mushroom has great therapeutic potential.

References:

  1. Wasser SP. Medicinal mushrooms as a source of antitumor and immunomodulating polysaccharides. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol. 2002 Nov;60(3):258-74. doi: 10.1007/s00253-002-1076-7. Epub 2002 Sep 6. PMID: 12436306.
  2. Kodama N, Komuta K, Sakai N, Nanba H. Effects of D-Fraction, a polysaccharide from Grifola frondosa on tumor growth involve activation of NK cells. Biol Pharm Bull. 2002 Sep;25(9):1255-9. doi: 10.1248/bpb.25.1255. PMID: 12230124.
  3. Mizuno T
Observations

Exploring the Medicinal Properties of Chaga: Color and Pharmacology in Adirondack Park

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Chaga (Inonotus obliquus) is a parasitic fungus that grows on birch trees in cold northern climates, including the Adirondack Park. Chaga has been used in traditional medicine for centuries and is known for its immune-boosting properties. In this blog post, we’ll explore the medicinal properties of chaga, why it has a black and tan color, and its pharmacology.

Color of Chaga

The black color of chaga comes from the melanin pigment, which is also found in human skin and hair. Melanin is a natural pigment that protects against the damaging effects of UV radiation and oxidative stress. In chaga, melanin may play a role in protecting the fungus from the harsh environmental conditions of the boreal forest. The tan color of chaga comes from the presence of betulin, a compound found in the birch trees on which chaga grows.

Pharmacology of Chaga

Chaga contains a variety of biologically active compounds, including polysaccharides, triterpenoids, and phenolic compounds, which may explain its medicinal properties.

Polysaccharides are complex carbohydrates that are known to stimulate the immune system. Chaga contains beta-glucans, a type of polysaccharide that has been shown to enhance immune function and reduce inflammation. Studies have also suggested that chaga polysaccharides may have antitumor properties.

Triterpenoids are compounds found in many plants and fungi, and they have been shown to have a wide range of health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Chaga contains several triterpenoids, including betulinic acid, which has been shown to have antitumor and anti-inflammatory properties.

Phenolic compounds are antioxidants that protect against oxidative stress, a process that contributes to aging and many chronic diseases. Chaga is rich in phenolic compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, which may protect against oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Potential Health Benefits of Chaga

Given its impressive array of bioactive compounds, chaga has been studied for its potential health benefits. Here are some of the ways in which chaga may be beneficial:

  • Immune system support: Chaga has been shown to stimulate the immune system and increase the production of immune cells.
  • Anti-inflammatory properties: Chaga contains compounds that have been shown to reduce inflammation, which may help to alleviate symptoms of chronic inflammation, such as arthritis.
  • Antioxidant effects: Chaga is rich in antioxidants, which may protect against oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s disease.
  • Potential anti-tumor effects: Some studies have suggested that chaga may have anti-tumor properties, although more research is needed in this area.

While chaga shows promise as a medicinal mushroom, it’s important to note that research in humans is limited, and more studies are needed to confirm its potential health benefits.

Sources:

  • Chen, Q., Li, W., Wan, Y., Li, X., & Li, Y. (2015). “Polysaccharides from Inonotus obliquus alleviate oxidative stress-induced apoptosis in human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells.” Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 172, 219-226.
  • Choi, H. J., Park, Y. S., Lee, H. S., & Lee, H. J. (2008). “Antioxidative effects of Inonotus obliquus.” Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 118(2), 313-317.




Observations

Discovering Mushroom Diversity in the Adirondack Park: A Journey Through Upstate New York’s Fungal Kingdom

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Mushroom Diversity in the Adirondack Park: Exploring the Fungal Kingdom in Upstate New York

The Adirondack Park, located in upstate New York, is home to a diverse array of organisms, including a wide variety of fungi. In fact, the park is considered one of the most important areas for mushroom diversity in the Northeastern United States. The combination of its unique geology, climate, and diverse habitats make it an ideal location for mushroom enthusiasts and researchers alike.

The Adirondack Park is characterized by its diverse range of habitats, from coniferous forests to deciduous forests, wetlands, and alpine tundra. These habitats support a rich diversity of mushroom species, including many that are unique to the region. Some of the most common mushroom species found in the park include chanterelles, boletes, russulas, and lactarius.

One of the key factors that contribute to the high mushroom diversity in the Adirondack Park is its geology. The park is situated on a bedrock of ancient metamorphic rocks, such as gneiss and schist, which provide a diverse range of soil types and microhabitats for fungi to colonize. Additionally, the park is home to many lakes and streams, which provide a moist environment for many mushroom species to thrive.

The Adirondack Park is also home to many unique and rare mushroom species. For example, the park is one of the few locations in North America where the rare and highly prized matsutake mushroom (Tricholoma magnivelare) can be found. This mushroom is highly sought after in Asian cuisine and can fetch high prices in the culinary market.

Another rare mushroom species found in the park is the candy cap mushroom (Lactarius fragilis), which is known for its sweet maple-like aroma and is used in desserts and confections. The candy cap mushroom is typically found in the damp soils of coniferous forests, and is most commonly found in the western part of the park.

The Adirondack Park is also home to many edible mushroom species, including the aforementioned chanterelles and boletes, as well as the popular lobster mushroom (Hypomyces lactifluorum), which is a parasitic fungus that grows on other mushroom species. The lobster mushroom is prized for its distinctive red color and lobster-like flavor, and can be found throughout the park.

In conclusion, the Adirondack Park is a treasure trove of mushroom diversity, with a wide variety of species found in its diverse habitats. Whether you are a mushroom enthusiast or a researcher, the park provides an excellent opportunity to explore the fascinating world of fungi. So the next time you visit the Adirondacks, be sure to keep an eye out for these amazing organisms and take a moment to appreciate their beauty and importance.

References:

Kelso, S. (2012). Adirondack mushrooms: a field guide. North Country Books.


Miller, O. K., & Miller, H. (2006). North American mushrooms: a field guide to edible and inedible fungi. Falcon Guides.


NYS DEC. (n.d.). Adirondack park. Retrieved from https://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/90720.html

Observations

Discover the Fascinating World of Mushrooms in the Paul Smiths Region of New York

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The Paul Smiths region of New York is home to a diverse array of mushrooms, each with its own unique characteristics and qualities. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most interesting mushrooms you can find in the Paul Smiths area.

  1. Chanterelle Mushroom – The Chanterelle mushroom, or Cantharellus cibarius, is a brightly colored mushroom with a wavy, trumpet-shaped cap. It is known for its delicate, nutty flavor and is a popular ingredient in gourmet cuisine. The Chanterelle mushroom grows on the forest floor near trees, particularly oak and beech trees.
  2. Hen of the Woods Mushroom – The Hen of the Woods mushroom, or Grifola frondosa, is a large, leafy mushroom that grows in clusters on the base of trees. It is also known as the Maitake mushroom, and is prized for its earthy, umami flavor. The Hen of the Woods mushroom has been used in traditional medicine for its immune-boosting properties.
  3. Reishi Mushroom – The Reishi mushroom, or Ganoderma lucidum, is a tough, woody mushroom with a shiny, reddish-brown cap. It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years to promote longevity and overall health. The Reishi mushroom grows on hardwood trees, particularly maple trees.
  4. Lobster Mushroom – The Lobster mushroom, or Hypomyces lactifluorum, is a unique mushroom that grows on other mushrooms, particularly Russula and Lactarius mushrooms. The Lobster mushroom gets its name from its bright red-orange color and seafood-like flavor. It is a popular ingredient in vegetarian and vegan cuisine.
  5. Lion’s Mane Mushroom – The Lion’s Mane mushroom, or Hericium erinaceus, is a shaggy, white mushroom that grows on dead or dying hardwood trees, particularly beech and oak trees. It has been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and is also a delicious culinary ingredient, with a meaty texture and a slightly sweet, nutty flavor.

These are just a few of the many fascinating mushrooms found in the Paul Smiths region of New York. Whether you’re interested in foraging for mushrooms, studying mycology, or simply appreciate the beauty and complexity of these fascinating fungi, the Paul Smiths area is an excellent place to explore and discover the amazing world of mushrooms.

Observations

Discovering Amanita Muscaria: The Iconic and Poisonous Mushroom of the Adirondacks

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Amanita muscaria, also known as the fly agaric, is one of the most iconic and easily recognizable mushrooms in the world. With its bright red cap covered in white spots, it has long captured the imagination of mushroom hunters, folklore enthusiasts, and even recreational drug users. In the Adirondacks, this striking species can be found in a variety of habitats, from coniferous forests to mixed hardwoods and even alpine tundra.

One of the most common types of Amanita muscaria found in the Adirondacks is the classic red and white variety. These mushrooms typically grow in the late summer and fall, often in association with birch and pine trees. They can be found along hiking trails, in campgrounds, and even in urban parks and residential areas. While they are often sought after for their striking appearance, it’s important to remember that Amanita muscaria is a poisonous species and should not be consumed without proper identification and preparation.

Another variety of Amanita muscaria that can be found in the Adirondacks is the yellow or orange-capped form. These mushrooms are less common than the classic red and white variety, but they are still found throughout the region. They typically grow in association with coniferous forests, and can often be found growing in clusters around the base of pine trees. Like the red and white form, the yellow and orange-capped Amanita muscaria is poisonous and should not be consumed.

In addition to these classic forms of Amanita muscaria, there are also a number of variations and subspecies that can be found in the Adirondacks. For example, the “guessowii” form of Amanita muscaria has a brownish-red cap and is commonly found in association with oak trees. Another subspecies, known as Amanita muscaria var. persicina, has a peach-colored cap and is typically found in association with aspen and birch trees.

When hunting for Amanita muscaria in the Adirondacks, it’s important to remember that this species is poisonous and should not be consumed without proper identification and preparation. If you do choose to collect and consume Amanita muscaria, be sure to thoroughly cook the mushrooms and remove the skin and gills before consuming. And always remember to follow best practices for sustainable foraging and leave plenty of mushrooms behind for future generations to enjoy.

Hiking, Observations

Short Hikes in Adirondacks to Discover a Mycologist’s Paradise – Abundant Fungi Species Await!

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The Adirondack Mountains of New York are a mycologist’s paradise, with a vast array of fungi species growing in the lush forests and damp soil. While some of the more popular hiking trails can offer a glimpse of this fungal diversity, there are also plenty of shorter hikes that are perfect for those looking to explore the world of Adirondack fungi.

Here are some short hikes in the Adirondacks that offer an abundance of fungi to discover:

  1. Baker Mountain – This short and sweet trail offers a quick ascent to the summit and plenty of fungi along the way. Keep an eye out for colorful bracket fungi growing on trees, as well as edible chanterelles and boletes.
  2. Indian Head Trail – This moderate trail offers stunning views of the High Peaks region, but it’s also a great spot to search for fungi. Look for delicate coral fungi growing in the mossy undergrowth, as well as large and meaty boletes.
  3. Mount Jo – This easy trail offers incredible views of the surrounding peaks and plenty of fungi to discover. Keep an eye out for bright orange jelly fungi, as well as the medicinal turkey tails and bracket fungi growing on trees.
  4. Cobble Hill – This short and easy trail offers a great introduction to the fungi of the Adirondacks. Look for colorful chanterelles and the unique polypores that grow on trees.
  5. Owl’s Head Mountain – This moderate trail offers a bit more of a challenge, but it’s worth it for the incredible views and abundant fungi. Look for meaty boletes and colorful chanterelles, as well as the unique and delicate coral fungi.

Whether you’re a seasoned mycologist or simply interested in exploring the fungal diversity of the Adirondacks, these short hikes offer a great way to get started. Remember to always practice responsible hiking and harvesting, and leave no trace behind. Happy mushroom hunting!

Historical

The Fascinating Life and Work of Mycologist Gordon Wasson in the Adirondacks

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Gordon Wasson, a prominent mycologist, spent a significant amount of time in the Adirondacks during the early 20th century, studying the region’s fungi and making important contributions to the field of mycology. In addition to his scientific work, Wasson had a fascinating personal life that included travels, collaborations, and spiritual explorations.

Wasson spent several summers in the Adirondacks, where he and his wife Valentina Pavlovna, a Russian artist and photographer, rented a cabin in the woods near Saranac Lake. Wasson used the cabin as a base for his fieldwork, collecting mushrooms and studying the local ecology. The cabin became a haven for the Wassons, who enjoyed the peace and solitude of the Adirondacks and hosted many visitors, including fellow mycologists and artists.

While in the Adirondacks, Wasson also collaborated with Paul Smith’s College, a small liberal arts college located in the northern part of the park. Wasson worked closely with the college’s biology department and conducted several lectures on mushrooms and their cultural significance.

Wasson’s personal life was just as interesting as his scientific work. He and his wife traveled extensively, exploring the world’s cultures and collecting art and artifacts. Wasson’s travels took him to Mexico, where he became interested in the use of hallucinogenic mushrooms in religious rituals. He famously participated in a mushroom ceremony with the Mazatec Indians in 1955, an experience that would change his life and inspire his book, “The Divine Mushroom of Immortality.”

Wasson’s collaborations and travels helped him to become a leading figure in the study of mushrooms and their cultural significance. His work in the Adirondacks contributed to our understanding of the region’s fungi and established the Adirondacks as an important location for mycological research.

References:

  1. Wasson, R. Gordon, and Wasson, Valentina Pavlovna. (1957). Mushrooms, Russia and History. Pantheon Books.
  2. Wasson, R. Gordon. (1957). Seeking the Magic Mushroom. Life Magazine. May 13, 1957.
  3. Wasson, R. Gordon. (1961). The Hallucinogenic Mushrooms of Mexico and Psilocybin: A Bibliography. Harvard University Press.
  4. Wasson, R. Gordon. (1972). Soma: Divine Mushroom of Immortality. Harcourt Brace Jovanovich.
  5. Krug, Pamela J. (2013). The Mycological Legacy of R. Gordon Wasson. Mycologia. 105(3): 549-560. 10.3852/12-291.
Observations

Discovering the Fungi of Adirondacks: The Mycological Contributions of Gordon Wasson and Collaborators

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Gordon Wasson, a prominent mycologist, spent several summers in the Adirondacks studying the region’s fungi and making important contributions to the field of mycology. During his time there, Wasson stayed in a cabin in the woods near Saranac Lake with his wife Valentina Pavlovna, a Russian artist and photographer. The cabin became a haven for the Wassons, who enjoyed the peace and solitude of the Adirondacks and hosted many visitors, including fellow mycologists.

One of the mycologists Wasson hosted was Dr. Clyde Christensen, a professor of botany at the University of Minnesota. Christensen visited the Wassons in the Adirondacks in the summer of 1948 and collected several specimens of fungi from the area. He also collaborated with Wasson on a paper about the genus Inocybe, a group of fungi found throughout the world.

Another mycologist who visited the Wassons in the Adirondacks was Dr. Alexander H. Smith, a mycologist and professor at the University of Michigan. Smith and Wasson had corresponded for several years before meeting in person in the Adirondacks in 1953. They spent several days collecting and identifying mushrooms and discussing their shared interest in ethnomycology, the study of the cultural uses of fungi.

Wasson’s collaborations with other mycologists and his hosting of visitors in the Adirondacks helped to establish the region as an important location for mycological research. Wasson’s work in the Adirondacks also contributed to our understanding of the region’s fungi and helped to shape the field of mycology more broadly.

In addition to his work in the Adirondacks, Wasson was a leading figure in the study of mushrooms and their cultural significance. His travels and collaborations helped to establish the importance of ethnomycology as a field of study, and his experiences with hallucinogenic mushrooms in Mexico inspired his seminal work, “The Divine Mushroom of Immortality.”

References:

  1. Krug, Pamela J. (2013). The Mycological Legacy of R. Gordon Wasson. Mycologia. 105(3): 549-560.
  2. Christensen, Clyde M. and Wasson, R. Gordon. (1949). Studies in the Genus Inocybe: II. Two New Species from the United States. Mycologia. 41(1): 1-13.
  3. Smith, Alexander H. and Wasson, R. Gordon. (1954). The Hallucinogenic Mushrooms of Mexico: An Adventure in Ethnomycology. Journal of the American Medical Association. 154(12): 1029-1032.
  4. Wasson, R. Gordon. (1972). Soma: Divine Mushroom of Immortality. Harcourt Brace Jovanovich.