Meet Westmecklenburg's Sole Mushroom Expert: Phillip Buchfink
Mushroom enthusiasts in Westmecklenburg are in luck, with Phillip Buchfink, a dedicated expert, leading educational walks and offering voluntary consultations. Despite a decrease in mushroom consultants, Buchfink's passion for fungi remains undeterred.
Buchfink, who has been collecting and studying mushrooms since childhood, shares his knowledge with participants from Boltenhagen, Plate, and other nearby locations. During his walks, he educates about various species, such as the Zinnober-Täubling and Maronen-Röhrlinge, rather than simply helping fill baskets.
Buchfink's favourite species include the porcini (Steinpilz, Boletus edulis) and other tasty varieties. He enjoys finding and consuming these, but warns beginners about poisonous champignons and dangerous look-alikes. Even giant champignons, though edible, should be consumed in moderation due to potential heavy metal accumulation.
Despite not eating the Buchenschleimrübling due to its thin flesh and slime layer, Buchfink confirms it is edible. He continues to learn about new species, like the False Red Cap bolete introduced from Lithuania, demonstrating his commitment to mushroom education.
With Phillip Buchfink as the sole mushroom consultant in Westmecklenburg, enthusiasts can safely and knowledgeably explore the region's fungi. His voluntary counseling and educational walks ensure that participants understand and appreciate the diverse world of mushrooms.