Tear Drop Fungus (Lacrymaria lacrymabunda)
Tear Drop Fungus
Lacrymaria lacrymabunda
Visual Identification
What is Tear Drop Fungus? A Complete Overview
General Overview of Lacrymaria lacrymabunda
Lacrymaria lacrymabunda, commonly referred to as the Tear Drop Fungus or Weeping Widow, is a striking member of the Psathyrellaceae family. This medium-sized, gilled mushroom is best recognized for its unique scaly cap and the 'weeping' droplets that often exude from the gills, especially in moist conditions. These droplets are a signature characteristic, and give rise to its Latin and English names. This strain grows well in mushroom grow kits as well as monotubs with excellent yields.
The cap of L. lacrymabunda typically ranges between 3 to 10 centimeters in diameter and initially appears egg-shaped or bell-like, expanding to a broadly bell-shaped or flat form as it matures. The surface is scaly, particularly toward the center, with shades varying from tan to deep brown. Gills are free or narrowly attached, starting out beige-gray and turning a darker brown with age due to spore development. Stipes (stems) range from 5 to 12 cm tall, often fibrous and hollow, with subtle longitudinal striations.
Characteristics
The most notable feature of Lacrymaria lacrymabunda is its deliquescent behavior—producing tears or droplets on its gills, which is uncommon in many other mushrooms. These droplets are clear or slightly opaque and are believed to assist in spore dispersal. The presence of a thin veil during development may sometimes leave remnants near the stipe or cap edge.
Spore prints are dark brown to almost black, aiding in identification. The overall texture is fragile, and the cap may break easily when handled. Its ephemeral nature means the fruiting body often degrades quickly after appearance, particularly in wet weather conditions.
Because of its unique look and relatively frequent urban and woodland appearance, it is a commonly encountered and visually interesting species among amateur mycologists.
Taxonomic Classification
Historical and Cultural Significance of Tear Drop Fungus
Name Origin and Symbolism
The Latin term 'lacrymabunda' roughly means 'weeping' or 'tear-shedding,' a reference to the mushroom's gill droplets. This emotional quality possibly inspired the colloquial English term "Weeping Widow," evoking imagery of sorrow and mystery. While poetic, this naming does not point to known symbolic usage in mythology or storytelling.
Ethnomycological Attention
Though not featured predominantly in indigenous rituals or healing ceremonies, the species has become the subject of interest in the field of urban mycology and citizen science. Foraging forums and communities often highlight L. lacrymabunda as an early identification species for beginners due to its distinct characteristics and frequent urban occurrence.
Unlike Amanitas or Boletes, which seep into folklore and superstition, Lacrymaria lacrymabunda remains a visually fascinating, if culturally understated, mushroom with niche appreciation among mushroom photographers and field mycologists.
Where Does Tear Drop Fungus Typically Grow?
Natural Habitat and Distribution of Lacrymaria lacrymabunda
Lacrymaria lacrymabunda is widely distributed across temperate regions and shows a strong affinity for anthropogenic and disturbed habitats. It thrives in nutrient-rich soils found in grassy patches, mulched flower beds, compost heaps, garden paths, and woodchip-laden areas. While many woodland species prefer undisturbed soils, this mushroom often appears in locations frequently influenced by human landscaping or gardening interventions.
From coastal zones up to moderate altitudes in continental Europe, North America, and parts of Asia, it is locally abundant during its fruiting season. Urban environments tend to support large colonies of L. lacrymabunda, and it is not unusual to find them near sidewalks, parks, and in recreational forest zones.
Ecological Niche
The species prefers soils with decaying organic matter and tends to favor nitrogen-rich substrates. Decaying wood, especially hardwood chips introduced into urban settings, seem to promote its proliferation. Its adaptability and ability to emerge in both natural and cultivated areas contribute significantly to its widespread distribution.
Lacrymaria lacrymabunda plays a saprotrophic role in ecosystems. By consuming decomposed organic matter, it participates in nutrient cycling and enriches soil fertility. Mushrooms like L. lacrymabunda are crucial in breaking down complex plant polymers, returning nutrients to the soil food web. In landscaping ecosystems, they often promote plant health indirectly by improving soil structure and microbial diversity.
When is Tear Drop Fungus in Season?
Spring – Late Autumn
How to Cultivate Tear Drop Fungus
Substrate and Environment
A blend of hardwood chips, garden compost, and straw works well to simulate its preferred nutrient base. The mushroom thrives in nitrogen-rich environments with balanced C-to-N ratios, making compost heaps an ideal starting point. Sterile substrate preparation isn't strictly necessary, though pasteurization can reduce contamination risks.
Inoculation and Growth
Spawn or spore prints can be introduced into prepared beds—either outdoor ones or large containers kept in shaded, moist areas. Temperature targets between 15°C and 23°C (59–73°F) are optimal. Moisture retention is critical. Ensure adequate humidity through mulching or misting systems. The mycelium colonizes substrate within 4–6 weeks, with potential fruiting seen shortly after rainfall or artificial watering.
Harvesting
Mature caps should be harvested early in the fruiting process, as overripe specimens degrade rapidly. Cutting rather than pulling helps minimize damage and allows the substrate to regenerate.
Due to lack of commercial viability, this mushroom's cultivation is currently a hobbyist endeavor rather than a commercial farming option.
Is Tear Drop Fungus Edible or Toxic?
Safety Information:
Physical Toxicity
There are no reports of severe poisoning directly associated with L. lacrymabunda. Nonetheless, due to bioaccumulation, specimens found in urban or polluted environments should be avoided, as they may absorb heavy metals, hydrocarbons, or pesticides. This can result in minor gastrointestinal discomfort if consumed.
Digestive Cautions
Due to its quick decomposition and high water content, the mushroom may spoil quickly, leading to foodborne illness if improperly stored or cooked. Individuals with mushroom sensitivities may experience indigestion, bloating, or cramping.
Toxic Look-Alike Concerns
A related concern is misidentification with poisonous look-alikes. As always, proper identification should be done by or under the guidance of an experienced mycologist. Allergic skin reactions (e.g., urticaria) or respiratory irritation from airborne spores are possible, particularly during spore release in enclosed spaces.
How to Cook and Prepare Tear Drop Fungus
Flavor and Texture
Young caps have a mild earthy flavor, lacking the umami richness characteristic of gourmet fungi such as chanterelles or porcini. The texture is soft and slightly gelatinous when sautéed, and the mushroom tends to absorb flavors from accompanying ingredients due to its delicate consistency.
Common Cooking Methods
Sautéing: Young caps may be lightly sautéed in butter or olive oil with garlic and onions to serve as a mild side component.
Soup Additive: When chopped finely and added to mushroom broths or miso soups, they can contribute aroma and filler volume.
Omelets and Stir-fries: If combined with stronger-flavored mushrooms like oyster or shiitake, Tear Drop Fungus can stretch the mixture without overwhelming the palate.
Given its quick degradation and limited flavor profile, this mushroom is best appreciated by enthusiasts for its aesthetic qualities rather than as a staple ingredient in recipes.
Nutritional Value of Tear Drop Fungus
Macronutrient Profile (Estimated per 100g Fresh Weight):
These figures align with general expectations for fleshy fungi that grow quickly and decompose just as rapidly.
Vitamins and Micronutrients
- Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): Crucial for energy production and cellular health.
- Vitamin B3 (Niacin): Supports enzymatic regulation and skin health.
- Folic Acid: Important in DNA synthesis and pregnancy nutrition.
- Potassium: Supports cardiovascular health and intracellular fluid balance.
- Phosphorus: Essential for bone and metabolic function.
- Iron: Trace amounts, improving oxygen transport.
Mushrooms are known bioaccumulators; they draw nutrients and trace elements from their substrate. So the exact nutritional makeup may vary depending on whether L. lacrymabunda was collected from wood chips, mulch, or leaf litter.
Given its subtle flavor and perishability, the species is not cultivated or marketed widely for its dietary content, but like most mushrooms, it offers the benefit of being cholesterol-free, gluten-free, and low in sodium.
What are the Health Benefits of Tear Drop Fungus?
Limited Research
Currently, Lacrymaria lacrymabunda is not prominent in the realm of medicinal mushrooms. Unlike its bioactive-rich relatives such as Turkey Tail (Trametes versicolor) or Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus), there is limited formal research or ethnobotanical literature suggesting substantial health benefits derived from consumption.
Scientific investigations into the Psathyrellaceae family have yielded modest results in areas such as antimicrobial, antioxidative, and enzymatic functionalities. However, studies specifically focusing on L. lacrymabunda are scarce or non-existent in major academic repositories. Preliminary inquiries into similar saprotrophic mushrooms may provide insight into potential yet unexplored benefits, such as beta-glucan presence or ergosterol derivatives. These substances are known for supporting immune function and exhibiting mild anti-inflammatory properties in other fungi.
Traditional or Folk Uses
There appears to be no significant historical usage of this species for medicinal purposes in traditional Eastern or Western systems of medicine. This lack of integration into folk herbology may be due to its ephemeral nature and inconsistent appearance, making it a less reliable option for sustained therapeutic use.
Until further studies validate its pharmacological constituents, L. lacrymabunda remains outside the core group of medicinal mushrooms leveraged for human health.
Precautions and Interactions
Potential Caution Areas
Although L. lacrymabunda is not known to produce mycotoxins, there's limited toxicological data. If future studies uncover compounds with enzyme-modulating properties (e.g., CYP450 inhibitors), drug interaction potential could emerge.
More pressing is the risk of mistakenly consuming a closely resembling toxic species rather than the mushroom itself interfering with drugs. As with many fungi, isolated immune-stimulating components (like polysaccharides) from close relatives may theoretically interfere with immunosuppressive drugs like corticosteroids or transplant medications. However, no such interference is recorded with this species.
General Considerations
Until more concrete pharmacological profiles exist, conservative guidance suggests avoiding unknown mushrooms in individuals on complex medication regimens, particularly for conditions involving liver metabolism specialization.
What Mushrooms Look Like Tear Drop Fungus?
Lookalike Species to Lacrymaria lacrymabunda
Lacrymaria lacrymabunda bears resemblance to several other mushrooms, leading to confusion among amateur foragers. Accurate identification is vital to avoid accidental ingestion of harmful species.
- Psathyrella spp.: Many species in the Psathyrella genus are look-alikes with similar coloration and fragile cap textures. Psathyrellas often have hygrophanous caps that fade after drying and share a similar habitat preference. Differentiators include the absence of weeping gills and finer spore print characteristics.
- Coprinellus micaceus (Mica Cap): Like L. lacrymabunda, the mica cap appears in clusters near wood or mulch. Both exhibit deliquescent traits, though C. micaceus tends to dissolve more quickly into inky patches and sports a sparkly, mica-like sheen on its cap during early development.
- Inocybe spp.: Some members of the genus Inocybe are toxic and superficially resemble young L. lacrymabunda mushrooms. Inocybes often grow in grassy environments and may feature fibrous caps. Key distinguishing traits include their distinct odor (often spermatic) and harsher texture.
Proper identification can be made through a combination of spore prints, microscopic examination, and observing droplet behavior on the gills in moist conditions.
Safety Note: Always use proper identification methods and consult expert mycologists when foraging. Misidentification can have serious health consequences.
Where to Find Tear Drop Fungus Information
Community Discussions About Tear Drop Fungus
Disclaimer: This information is for educational and identification purposes only. Never consume wild mushrooms without expert identification. Always consult with qualified mycologists and healthcare professionals. Foraging and consumption of wild mushrooms carries inherent risks.