Pleurotus pulmonarius - Вёшенка лёгочная - Lung Oyster - Lungen-Seitling 9/23/22
Pleurotus pulmonarius, also known as the Lung Oyster, is a saprobic basidiomycete fungus belonging to the Pleurotaceae family. This species is characterized by its fan-shaped or oyster-like caps, which can reach up to 15 cm in diameter. The cap color varies from pale gray to brownish, often with a lighter margin. The white to cream-colored gills run down the short, off-center stem.
As a saprotrophic fungus, Pleurotus pulmonarius primarily decomposes dead hardwood, although it can also grow on conifer wood. This species is considered edible and is known for its pleasant taste and tender texture.
The Lung Oyster is widely distributed across North America, Europe, Asia, and parts of Russia, where it is known as Вёшенка лёгочная. It typically inhabits deciduous forests and can be found on decaying logs, stumps, and living trees with weakened bark.
Pleurotus pulmonarius produces white to pale lilac, elliptical spores that measure approximately 8-12 µm by 3-4 µm. The spore print is white, making it a key characteristic for identification. The number of spores produced per fruiting body can vary, depending on factors such as species, environmental conditions, and the size of the fruiting body, but generally, millions of spores can be produced by a single mushroom.
Although Pleurotus pulmonarius is considered edible, proper identification is essential when foraging for mushrooms to avoid accidental ingestion of harmful species. This species can sometimes be confused with the toxic Pleurocybella porrigens, although the latter has a more gelatinous texture and a white spore print.
In German, this fungus is known as Lungen-Seitling, which reflects its lung-like appearance and its close relationship with the Pleurotaceae family. Additionally, Pleurotus pulmonarius has been studied for its potential medicinal properties, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, as well as its ability to stimulate the immune system.
Pleurotus pulmonarius - Вёшенка лёгочная - Lung Oyster - Lungen-Seitling