Udupi: Monsoon Mushrooms—A Local Delicacy
 
Pics: Inchara Digitals
Daijiworld Media Network—Udupi (RD/CN)
 
Udupi, Jun 24: Mushrooms of different varieties and shapes spring from the earth in abundance across the coastal district within a few days of the monsoon setting in every year and this year is no exception. 

The mushrooms emerge out of the fungus in the soil enriched with natural manure in the crevices of trees and around the rain-soaked courtyard of farmers’ homes displaying nature’s uniqueness in bio-diversity. 

The mushrooms emerge from the soil enriched with rotten dry leaves and natural waste, within a few days of torrential rains coupled with thunder and lightning. 

The monsoon enriches the soil and the mushrooms of different varieties and shapes emerge. 

An edible mushroom that is found in forests in abundance is a delicacy for the locals.  Those who source them earn anything from Rs 70–Rs 300 per kg.  The natural mushrooms have great demand in India and other countries unlike the farm-grown mushrooms available in all seasons. 

The locals venture into the forest in groups to collect these natural mushrooms that grow all over the vegetation and in bushels. 
 
However, all mushrooms are not edible. Locals know from the colour and the location of the mushrooms whether they are edible or not. 

Care is required as is knowledge in identifying the poisonous mushrooms which can cause stomach upsets and vomiting.