TOPIC 6 Mushrooms

M U S H R O O M S

From the Latin fungus, a fungus is a eukaryotic organism that belongs to the Fungi kingdom. The mushrooms form a polyphyletic group (there is no common ancestor to all members) and are parasites or live on decaying organic matter. (Perez & Gardey,2010, párr.1).

Some of the characteristics of this group is that their cell walls are made up of chitin. And the feeding of fungi is known as osmotrophy. But also, another feature is that the eatable mushrooms provide protein and vitamins such as pumpkin mushrooms (Boletus edulis), chanterelles (Lactarius deliciosus) and mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus). Some people use it in food preparation to act as a yeast for the fermentation of bread and beer.

M E D I C I N A L P R O P E R T I E S O F M U S H R O O M S

In addition, they cause a favorable antiatherogenic effect, that is, they collaborate with the prevention of heart diseases, thanks to the fact that they prevent the arteries from hardening. In our country: In Cocos Island, a total of 139 species of fungi have been registered so far, belonging to 85 genera and 46 families. (Cooke y Bonar, 1961, párr.1). In the region of Gandoca-Manzanillo and Sixaola there has registered, so far, a total of 80 species of fungi belonging to 60 genera, 39 families, 18 orders, two divisions (Ascomycota and Basidiomycota). (Riquezas de especies, s.f, párr.1).