A fungus is any member of the group of eukaryotic organisms that includes unicellular microorganisms such as yeasts and molds, as well as multicellular fungi that produce familiar fruiting forms known as mushrooms.
These organisms are classified as a kingdom Fungi, which is separate from the other eukaryotic life kingdoms of plants and animals. Fungi do not use photosynthesis to create energy.
Edible mushrooms are the fleshy fruit bodies of several species of macrofungi that are harvested wild or cultivated, and may be dangerousif grown in polluted location.
Edibility is defined by criteria like:
- absence of poisonous effects on humans (deadly mushrooms can be confused with edible),
- desirable taste and aroma.
Eat any fungus for the first time in small quantities, especially in case of allergies.
