Ochra - Psilocybe Ochraceocentrata
"Ochra" - a new psychoactive mushroom
The world’s most widely cultivated magic mushroom may not be alone after all. Researchers have discovered a previously unknown species of psychedelic mushroom in southern Africa that appears to be the closest known relative of Psilocybe cubensis — the species grown around the world for its psilocybin-producing properties.
Researchers identified the mushroom, named Psilocybe ochraceocentrata, from specimens collected in grasslands across South Africa and Zimbabwe. Genetic analysis shows that it diverged from P. cubensis roughly 1.5 million years ago, according to a study published in Proceedings of the Royal Society B.
Ironically, the newly described species has been quietly circulating among mushroom cultivators for years. Growers around the world have long cultivated strains known as “Natal Super Strength” (NSS) and “Transkei,” assuming they were simply varieties of Psilocybe cubensis. The new research reveals those strains actually belong to Psilocybe ochraceocentrata. The mushroom’s name refers to a distinctive feature of its appearance — the ochre-yellow coloring at the center of its cap. Like P. cubensis, the species typically grows on or near herbivore dung. Because the two species share similar habitats and outward appearances, they were easily mistaken for one another. DiscoverMagazine.com
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