THE MUSHROOMS

The fungi are achlorophyllous (without green colouring matter) organisms of cryptogams. These organisms survive by decomposing the waste material with the help of enzymes. During rainy season some fungi bloom into a visible fruiting body called mushroom. Sometimes they appear in a circle known as fairy rings. Every mushroom consists of small root like structures (rhizoids) at the base of long stem or stipe, bearing umbrella of different colours other than green at the top. The upper surface of the umbrella or cap is rough or smooth but its lower surface bear the gills (partitions) or pores. The spores are produced in pores and on partitions. These spores on germination reproduce the fruiting body called mushrooms. They are found in plains, mountainous and coastal areas of Pakistan. The mycorrhizal mushrooms like Amanita and Boletus are found growing in association with spruce, firs and birch trees. The wild mushroom must not be eaten unless they are identified by experts completely, because some mushrooms are edible while others are poisonous.

MoST

PSF