Consider the following statements: 1. Some mushrooms have medicinal

Consider the following statements:

  • 1. Some mushrooms have medicinal properties.
  • 2. Some mushrooms have psycho-active properties.
  • 3. Some mushrooms have insecticidal properties.
  • 4. Some mushrooms have bioluminescent properties.

How many of the above statements are correct?

Only one
Only two
Only three
All four
This question was previously asked in
UPSC IAS – 2023
All four statements are correct.
1. **Some mushrooms have medicinal properties:** Many mushroom species have been traditionally used for medicinal purposes and are being researched for compounds with potential benefits, including anti-cancer, immune-modulating, and antibiotic effects (e.g., Reishi, Shiitake, Turkey Tail).
2. **Some mushrooms have psycho-active properties:** Certain mushrooms contain psychoactive compounds like psilocybin and psilocin (e.g., Psilocybe species), which affect the mind and perception.
3. **Some mushrooms have insecticidal properties:** Some fungi, including certain mushroom species, produce compounds that are toxic or deterrent to insects. *Amanita muscaria*, for example, contains ibotenic acid, which has insecticidal properties.
4. **Some mushrooms have bioluminescent properties:** Several species of fungi, including certain mushrooms (e.g., some *Mycena* species, *Panellus stipticus*), are bioluminescent, meaning they produce light through a chemical reaction.
Fungi are a diverse kingdom, and mushrooms, being the fruiting bodies of many fungi, exhibit a wide range of biological and chemical properties, including those mentioned in the statements.