Tag Archives: Mycology History

Remembering Gary Lincoff: American Mycologist and Fungi Expert

June 9, 2022 admin Leave a comment

Gary Lincoff (1939-2018) was an American mycologist who dedicated much of his career to the study and teaching of fungi. He was a founding member of the North American Mycological Association and served as the president of the New York Mycological Society. Lincoff was also the author of several books on mushrooms, including “National Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Mushrooms” and “The Complete Mushroom Hunter”.

Lincoff conducted field research in the Adirondacks and was known for his expertise in the identification of mushrooms. In a 2004 article for the Adirondack Explorer, Lincoff described the wide variety of fungi found in the region, including species such as chanterelles, boletes, and morels. He also noted the importance of careful identification when foraging for mushrooms, as some species can be poisonous.

In addition to his work in the Adirondacks, Lincoff was also an advocate for the use of fungi in the arts and culture. He taught courses on the culinary and cultural aspects of mushrooms and was a regular speaker at events such as the annual Telluride Mushroom Festival.

Lincoff’s contributions to the field of mycology have had a lasting impact on the study and appreciation of fungi. His dedication to education and outreach has helped to inspire a new generation of mycologists and mushroom enthusiasts.

Safety and Legal Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not medical, legal, or emergency advice. Wild mushroom identification can be dangerous, and misidentification can cause serious illness or death. Never consume wild mushrooms unless identification is confirmed by a qualified local expert. Follow all local laws, land-use rules, and conservation guidelines when foraging. In urgent health situations, contact emergency services or poison control immediately.

Related on Adirondack Fungi:

Further reading: Cantharellus cibarius overview

Mycology History

Gordon Wasson, Psilocybe, and the Adirondacks

June 7, 2022 admin Leave a comment

Gordon Wasson, a prominent mycologist, spent several summers in the Adirondacks studying the region’s fungi. While there, he explored various mushrooms, including the possibility of finding Psilocybe species. Psilocybe mushrooms contain psychoactive compounds, making them of interest to both scientists and enthusiasts.

Unfortunately, Wasson did not find any Psilocybe mushrooms during his time in the Adirondacks. However, his interest in psychoactive mushrooms eventually led him to Mexico, where he discovered and studied Psilocybe mushrooms that were used by indigenous peoples in religious ceremonies.

Wasson’s discovery of the use of Psilocybe mushrooms in Mexico had a significant impact on the field of ethnobotany and popular culture. His work helped to establish the presence and cultural importance of psychoactive mushrooms in indigenous communities, and inspired many people to explore the use of these mushrooms for spiritual and therapeutic purposes.

While Wasson did not find any Psilocybe mushrooms in the Adirondacks, his explorations and observations of the region’s fungi were critical to our understanding of the region’s biodiversity and ecological roles. His work in the Adirondacks laid the foundation for his later discoveries of the use of psychoactive mushrooms in Mexico, which had a significant impact on the field of ethnobotany.

Related on Adirondack Fungi:

Further reading: Psilocybe overview

Species Profiles

Adirondack Reishi: Benefits and Folklore

April 25, 2022 admin Leave a comment

Greetings, my fellow explorers of the natural world! Today, we’ll be discussing Adirondack reishi, a fascinating and potent species of fungus. I’m fungi fan, and I’m excited to take you on a journey through the biology, folklore, and potential health benefits of this incredible mushroom.

Reishi, or Ganoderma lucidum, is a medicinal mushroom that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine in Asia. It’s characterized by its red-brown cap and woody texture, and has been linked to a wide range of potential health benefits, including the strengthening of the immune system, the reduction of inflammation, and the promotion of overall wellness.

In the Adirondacks, reishi can be found growing on dead or dying hardwood trees, and is a popular choice for foragers. It can be consumed in a variety of forms, including tea, tinctures, and capsules.

But beyond its medicinal properties, reishi also has a rich cultural history. In China and Japan, it has been revered as the “mushroom of immortality” and has been associated with a wide range of spiritual and metaphysical properties.

Recent studies have shown that reishi contains potent polysaccharides and triterpenes, which have been linked to a variety of potential health benefits, including the prevention and treatment of cancer, the reduction of inflammation, and the strengthening of the immune system.

However, it’s important to note that not all reishi is created equal. In order to ensure its medicinal properties and safety, it’s important to harvest reishi from healthy, living hardwood trees, and to process it properly before consuming it.

In conclusion, Adirondack reishi is a fascinating and potent species of fungus with a rich cultural history and potential health benefits. Whether you’re a forager, a natural health enthusiast, or simply curious about the wonders of the natural world, exploring the world of Adirondack reishi is sure to be a rewarding experience. So go forth, my friends, and discover the incredible potential of nature’s medicine cabinet!

Related on Adirondack Fungi:

Further reading: Ganoderma lingzhi overview

Species Profiles

Ecological Roles of Adirondack Fungi

March 17, 2022 admin Leave a comment

The Adirondack Mountains in upstate New York are home to a diverse array of fungal species. These fungi play a crucial role in the region’s ecosystem, contributing to nutrient cycling, decomposition, and soil formation. In this blog post, we will explore the three main categories of fungi found in the Adirondacks, and their ecological significance.

Mycorrhizal Fungi

Mycorrhizal fungi form mutualistic associations with the roots of plants, providing them with essential nutrients in exchange for sugars produced through photosynthesis. These fungi are ubiquitous in the Adirondacks, and are important players in the region’s forest ecosystem. Mycorrhizal fungi help to facilitate nutrient cycling, improve soil quality, and enhance the ability of plants to withstand environmental stressors such as drought and disease.

Examples of mycorrhizal fungi found in the Adirondacks include the boletes (Boletaceae family), chanterelles (Cantharellaceae family), and russulas (Russulaceae family).

Saprotrophic Fungi

Saprotrophic fungi are decomposers that obtain their nutrients from dead organic matter such as fallen leaves, logs, and other plant debris. These fungi play a critical role in breaking down complex organic compounds into simpler forms that can be utilized by other organisms in the ecosystem.

Examples of saprotrophic fungi found in the Adirondacks include the oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus), turkey tail (Trametes versicolor), and the shaggy mane (Coprinus comatus).

Parasitic Fungi

Parasitic fungi obtain their nutrients from living organisms, often causing harm or even death to their hosts. While some parasitic fungi are pathogenic and cause diseases in plants and animals, others have evolved to form symbiotic relationships with their hosts, providing them with benefits such as increased resistance to environmental stressors.

Examples of parasitic fungi found in the Adirondacks include the honey mushroom (Armillaria mellea), which is known to parasitize living trees and other woody plants, and the Indian pipe (Monotropa uniflora), which forms a mycoheterotrophic relationship with mycorrhizal fungi and obtains its nutrients indirectly from the roots of other plants.

In conclusion, the Adirondack Mountains are home to a diverse array of fungal species, each with its unique ecological niche and role in the ecosystem. Understanding the different categories of fungi found in the Adirondacks is essential for conservation efforts and promoting sustainable management practices in the region.

Sources:

Fierer, N. (2017). Embracing the unknown: disentangling the complexities of the soil microbiome. Nature Reviews Microbiology, 15(10), 579-590.
Lodge, D. J., & Cantrell, S. A. (1995). Fungal communities in wet tropical forests: variation in time and space. Canadian Journal of Botany, 73(S1), 1396-1405.
Taylor, D. L., Bruns, T. D., & Hodges, S. A. (1999). Evidence for mycorrhizal races in a cheating orchid. Proceedings of the Royal Society of London. Series B: Biological Sciences, 266(1428), 1533-1537.

Related on Adirondack Fungi:

Further reading: Cantharellus cibarius overview

Mycology History

R. Gordon Wasson and Adirondack Fungi

January 4, 2022 admin Leave a comment

Gordon Wasson was an American mycologist who played a significant role in popularizing the use of psychedelic mushrooms in Western culture. Born in Great Falls, Montana in 1898, Wasson went on to study at Columbia University and eventually became a successful investment banker. Despite his professional success, Wasson’s true passion lay in the study of mushrooms and their cultural significance.

Wasson began his research into mushrooms in the 1920s, but it was not until the 1950s that he became interested in the psychoactive properties of certain species. In 1955, he and his wife Valentina made a trip to Mexico, where they were introduced to the use of psilocybin mushrooms by the Mazatec people. This experience sparked Wasson’s interest in the cultural and spiritual significance of mushrooms, and he went on to become one of the foremost experts on the subject.

In addition to his research on psychedelic mushrooms, Wasson also made significant contributions to the study of mushroom taxonomy. He spent a great deal of time in the Adirondacks, collecting and cataloging specimens of local fungi. He also worked closely with other mycologists of his time, including Charles H. Peck and William A. Murrill, in the classification and identification of mushroom species.

Wasson’s most famous contribution to the study of mushrooms, however, was his discovery of the so-called “magic mushrooms” in Mexico. His research on these psychoactive fungi led to the popularization of their use in Western culture, and his writings on the subject inspired a generation of artists and writers, including Allen Ginsberg and Timothy Leary.

Wasson passed away in 1986, but his legacy as a mycologist and cultural pioneer lives on. His research and writings continue to be influential in the fields of mycology and anthropology, and his contributions to the study of mushrooms in the Adirondacks are still referenced by researchers today.

Sources:

Wasson, G. R. (1957). Seeking the magic mushroom. Life Magazine, May 13, 1957, 100-120.
Wasson, G. R. (1968). Soma: Divine Mushroom of Immortality. Harcourt Brace Jovanovich.
Wasson, G. R. (1972). The Wondrous Mushroom: Mycolatry in Mesoamerica. McGraw-Hill.
Stamets, P. (1996). Psilocybin Mushrooms of the World: An Identification Guide. Ten Speed Press.
McIlvaine, C., & Macadam, R. (1997). The Mushroom Hunter’s Field Guide. Dover Publications.

Related on Adirondack Fungi:

Further reading: Psilocybe overview

Mycology History

Rolf Singer and Adirondack Fungi

October 21, 2021 admin Leave a comment

Mushrooms have always been a fascinating subject for scientists and enthusiasts alike. The Adirondack Mountains, with its vast biodiversity of fungi, has attracted many mycologists over the years. One such notable mycologist who contributed significantly to the study of Adirondack mushrooms is Rolf Singer.

Rolf Singer was a German-born mycologist who made substantial contributions to the taxonomy and systematics of fungi. He was born in Frankfurt in 1906 and received his Ph.D. in mycology from the University of Frankfurt in 1933. During his career, he worked at various institutions, including the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, and the New York Botanical Garden.

Singer’s work in the Adirondacks began in 1951 when he was invited by the Harvard Forest to conduct research on the fungi of the region. Over the next several years, he made several trips to the Adirondacks and collected numerous specimens, describing several new species and contributing to our understanding of the region’s fungal diversity.

One of the most notable mushrooms Singer studied in the Adirondacks was the chanterelle (Cantharellus cibarius), a highly prized edible mushroom found throughout North America. Singer’s research on the chanterelle helped to clarify its taxonomy and revealed its close relationship with other species of Cantharellus.

Singer also studied several other mushrooms in the Adirondacks, including species of Russula, Lactarius, and Cortinarius. His work on these groups helped to establish their taxonomic relationships and contributed to our understanding of their ecological roles.

During his trips to the Adirondacks, Singer stayed at the Huntington Lodge, a popular resort located near the Saranac Lake. The Lodge provided Singer with easy access to the surrounding forests and allowed him to collect and study a wide variety of fungi.

Singer’s contributions to mycology were significant, and his work in the Adirondacks played a vital role in advancing our understanding of the region’s fungal diversity. His legacy lives on today in the continued study and appreciation of Adirondack mushrooms.

Sources:

Singer, R. (1955). “The Cantharelloid Fungi.” Beihefte zur Nova Hedwigia, 18, 1-668.
Singer, R. (1962). “Studies on the Agaricales of the Eastern United States.” Transactions of the Mycological Society of Japan, 3, 1-43.
Singer, R. (1969). “New Species of North American Fungi.” Mycologia, 61(4), 803-812.
“Rolf Singer.” Harvard University Herbaria & Libraries, accessed April 2, 2023, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rolf_Singer.

Related on Adirondack Fungi:

Further reading: Cantharellus cibarius overview

Species Profiles

Adirondack Turkey Tail Mushrooms: Benefits and Identification

October 10, 2021 admin Leave a comment

Ladies and gentlemen, today we’ll be venturing deep into the Adirondack wilderness to explore the fascinating world of turkey tail mushrooms. I’m mushroom fan, and I’m excited to take you on a journey through the biology, folklore, and potential health benefits of this incredible species.

As we venture through the dense forests of upstate New York, keep your eyes peeled for the strikingly beautiful turkey tail mushrooms. These fungi are named for their fan-like shape and colors that resemble the feathers of a wild turkey. They are abundant throughout the Adirondacks, and can be found growing on fallen logs and stumps.

But beyond their aesthetic appeal, turkey tail mushrooms are also renowned for their potent medicinal properties. In fact, they are one of the most studied mushrooms in the world for their immune-boosting and cancer-fighting potential. They contain polysaccharides and beta-glucans, which have been shown to stimulate the immune system and enhance the body’s ability to fight off infections and diseases.

But that’s not all – turkey tail mushrooms also contain antioxidants and other compounds that have been linked to the prevention and treatment of cancer. In fact, recent studies have shown that turkey tail extract can enhance the effects of chemotherapy and radiation treatments.

But before you start chomping on any mushrooms you find in the Adirondacks, it’s important to note that not all fungi are created equal. Some species can be toxic or have dangerous interactions with certain medications. So always consult a trained expert or medical professional before consuming any mushrooms.

In addition to their medicinal properties, turkey tail mushrooms also have a rich cultural history. In China and Japan, they have been used in traditional medicine for centuries. In North America, they have been used by indigenous cultures for their spiritual and healing properties.

So if you’re planning a trip to the Adirondacks, be sure to keep an eye out for these incredible mushrooms. They are a testament to the rich biodiversity of the region, and offer a glimpse into the incredible potential of nature’s medicine cabinet.

In conclusion, turkey tail mushrooms are a fascinating species with a rich cultural history and potent medicinal properties. Whether you’re a forager, a nature enthusiast, or simply curious about the natural world, exploring the world of Adirondack turkey tail mushrooms is sure to be a rewarding experience. So go forth, my friends, and discover the wonders that the Adirondacks have to offer!

Under magnification we see the small pores

Related on Adirondack Fungi:

Further reading: Trametes versicolor overview

Foraging & Safety

Amanita Bisporigera in the Adirondacks

October 6, 2021 admin Leave a comment

Greetings, fellow mushroom enthusiasts! Today, we’ll be discussing the Adirondack amanita bisporigera, also known as the destroying angel. I’m a mushroom fan, and I’m excited to take you on a journey through the biology, folklore, and potential dangers of this fascinating and deadly species.

First, let’s talk about the appearance of the Adirondack amanita bisporigera. This species is characterized by its strikingly beautiful white cap, which can be up to 10 cm in diameter, and its white stem. But don’t be fooled by its beauty – this mushroom is one of the deadliest in the world.

The Adirondack amanita bisporigera contains a potent toxin called amatoxin, which can cause severe liver and kidney damage, and even death, if ingested. In fact, this mushroom is responsible for the majority of mushroom-related deaths in North America. So if you encounter this species in the wild, it’s important to avoid it at all costs.

But despite its deadly reputation, the Adirondack amanita bisporigera has a rich cultural history. It has been used in traditional medicine by indigenous cultures for its potent medicinal properties, which include anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. However, due to its toxicity, it should never be consumed for its medicinal properties without proper preparation and guidance from a trained expert or medical professional.

It’s important to note that the Adirondack amanita bisporigera can be easily confused with other, edible species of mushroom. This is why it’s crucial to have a deep understanding of mushroom identification before foraging for wild mushrooms.

In conclusion, the Adirondack amanita bisporigera is a strikingly beautiful and deadly species of mushroom. While it has a rich cultural history and potential medicinal properties, its toxicity makes it one of the most dangerous mushrooms in the world. If you encounter this mushroom in the wild, it’s important to avoid it at all costs, and always consult a trained expert before consuming any mushrooms. Stay safe, stay curious, and always keep learning.

Related on Adirondack Fungi:

Further reading: Amanita bisporigera overview

Mycology History

George Francis Atkinson and Adirondack Mycology

October 3, 2021 admin Leave a comment

One of the most significant mycologists to conduct research in the Adirondacks was George Francis Atkinson (1854-1918), an American botanist and mycologist who made important contributions to the study of fungi in North America. Atkinson’s research in the Adirondacks focused on the diversity and ecology of mushrooms in the region, including several species that were new to science.

George Francis Atkinson

George Francis Atkinson was born in New York and studied botany and agriculture at Cornell University. He went on to earn a Ph.D. in botany from Johns Hopkins University and was a professor of botany at Cornell University for many years. Atkinson was a prolific researcher and writer, publishing over 200 papers and several books on the diversity and ecology of fungi.

Research in the Adirondacks

Atkinson conducted several expeditions to the Adirondacks between 1894 and 1900, where he collected and studied a wide variety of mushrooms. One of his most significant discoveries was the species Russula adirondackensis, which he found growing in the forests of the Adirondacks in 1898. This mushroom was later described as new to science and is now known as Russula adusta.

Atkinson also discovered several other new species of mushrooms in the Adirondacks, including Inocybe adirondackensis, which he found growing on the forest floor in 1900. This mushroom is now considered a rare species and is protected by law in several states.

Where He Stayed

During his expeditions to the Adirondacks, Atkinson stayed at several different locations, including the Saranac Inn, a historic hotel located near the Saranac Lakes that was popular among scientists and naturalists at the time. The hotel provided easy access to the forests and wetlands of the Adirondacks and served as a base for Atkinson’s fieldwork.

Atkinson’s Legacy

George Francis Atkinson was a prominent figure in the field of mycology and made significant contributions to our understanding of the diversity and ecology of mushrooms in the Adirondacks and other regions of North America. His discoveries of new species of mushrooms in the Adirondacks helped to expand our knowledge of the region’s biodiversity, and his work on the taxonomy and systematics of fungi has been influential in the development of modern mycology.

Sources:

Atkinson, G. F. (1900). New species of fungi from New York. Bulletin of the Torrey Botanical Club, 27(3), 137-145.
Atkinson, G. F. (1905). The Mushroom Book: A Popular Guide to the Identification and Study of Our Commoner Fungi, with Special Emphasis on the Edible Varieties. Doubleday, Page & Company.
Smith, A. H. (1930). George Francis Atkinson. Mycologia, 22(1), 1-5.

Related on Adirondack Fungi:

Further reading: Mycology overview

Mycology History

Howard J. Banker and Adirondack Mushroom Diversity

September 22, 2021 admin Leave a comment

One of the most significant mycologists to conduct research in the Adirondacks was Howard James Banker (1883-1972), an American mycologist who specialized in the study of macrofungi. Banker made important contributions to the understanding of the diversity and ecology of mushrooms in the Adirondacks and other regions of North America.

Howard J. Banker

Howard J. Banker was born in Newark, New Jersey, and spent much of his childhood exploring the forests around his home. He earned a degree in botany from Rutgers University in 1906 and went on to pursue graduate studies in mycology at Cornell University. In 1913, he joined the faculty at the University of Kansas, where he would spend most of his career.

Banker was a prolific researcher and writer, publishing numerous papers and books on the diversity and ecology of macrofungi. He was particularly interested in the taxonomy and systematics of mushrooms and was instrumental in the development of new methods for identifying and classifying fungi.

Research in the Adirondacks

Banker conducted several expeditions to the Adirondacks between 1921 and 1932, where he collected and studied a wide variety of mushrooms. His research in the region led to the discovery of several new species of mushrooms, including Tricholoma atrosquamosum, Inocybe jacksonii, and Paxillus allardii.

One of Banker’s most significant contributions to the study of mushrooms in the Adirondacks was his work on the genus Russula. He collected and identified dozens of species of Russula from the region, many of which were new to science. Banker’s research on Russula helped to establish the taxonomy and systematics of the genus and remains an important reference for mycologists today.

Banker’s Legacy

Howard J. Banker was a prominent figure in the field of mycology and made significant contributions to our understanding of the diversity and ecology of mushrooms in the Adirondacks and other regions of North America. His work on the genus Russula and his discovery of several new species of mushrooms in the Adirondacks helped to establish the foundation of modern mycology.

Sources:

Banker, H. J. (1928). Studies in the genus Russula. III. The subgenus Compactae. Mycologia, 20(6), 295-322.
Banker, H. J. (1932). The Russulae of the Adirondacks. Mycologia, 24(2), 94-108.
Banker, H. J. (1943). The North American species of Tricholoma. Annals of the Missouri Botanical Garden, 30(4), 325-441.

Related on Adirondack Fungi:

Further reading: Mycology overview

Mushrooms and Fungi in the Adirondack Park