A fungus among us: investigating queensland’s largest magic mushroom growing operation

In April 2024, forensic chemists analyzed six exhibits from a large Queensland mushroom operation. Psilocybin and Psilocin levels varied across samples; one exhibit had no reportable levels of either compound. DNA testing confirmed all six exhibits as Psilocybe cubensis, so the absence of psychoactive compounds in one genetically identical sample remains unexplained and warrants further investigation.

Study at a glance

Abstract

In April 2024, FSQ Forensic Chemists attended Queensland’s largest mushroom growing operation. Seized items included: 219 50 L plastic tubs of mushrooms in growth medium, bags of dried mushroom material, sterilised grain bags and spores in liquid. In consultation with QPS, six exhibits were selected for illicit drug analysis. Fresh mushrooms were harvested and freeze-dried, and all exhibits were homogenised prior to analysis. Psilocybin, found in “magic mushrooms,” converts to the psychoactive compound Psilocin. FSQ Forensic Chemistry uses LC-MS/MS and UPLC-PDA methods to detect and quantitate these scheduled dangerous drugs. Proportions of these psychoactive compounds varied across the different mushroom presentations, and one exhibit had no reportable levels of Psilocybin or Psilocin. This unexpected result prompted DNA testing on all six exhibits in collaboration with CPHS. DNA testing confirmed all exhibits as the species Psilocybe cubensis. The absence of psychoactive compounds in one genetically identical exhibit remains unexplained, warranting further investigation.