Mushroom

A mushroom is the visible reproductive structure of certain fungi. Unlike plants, fungi do not make their own food through photosynthesis; they obtain nutrients by breaking down organic matter or by living in association with other organisms. The part commonly called a mushroom is usually the fruiting body, while most of the fungus consists of a network of microscopic threads called hyphae, forming the mycelium.

In many familiar species, the fruiting body has a cap and a stem. The underside of the cap may bear gills, pores or other structures that produce and release spores. Mushrooms can grow in forests, grasslands, gardens and other environments where suitable organic material and moisture are available. Their shapes, colors and sizes vary greatly from one species to another.

Some mushrooms are cultivated for food, including the common button mushroom, oyster mushroom and shiitake. They provide water, dietary fiber, protein and several micronutrients, although their exact composition depends on the species and growing conditions. Mushrooms can be eaten raw in some preparations, but many are cooked to improve their texture and flavor.

They can be sautéed, grilled, baked or added to soups and sauces. Caution is essential with wild mushrooms: some edible species closely resemble poisonous ones, and cooking does not reliably make every toxic species safe. For this reason, wild mushrooms should only be eaten when their identity has been established with confidence by a qualified expert.