Radiocaesium in Tricholoma spp. from the Northern Hemisphere in 1971–2016

A considerable amount of data has been published on the accumulation radiocaesium (134Cs and particularly, 137Cs) in wild fungi since first anthropogenically influenced releases into environment due to nuclear weapon testing, usage subsequently from major accidents at power plants Chernobyl (1986) Fukushima (2011). Wild are particularly susceptible contamination persists for decades after pollution events. Macromycetes (fruiting bodies, popularly called mushrooms) edible fungal species an important part human forest animal food-webs many global locations. This review discusses occurrences 134Cs 137Cs twenty four Tricholoma mushrooms sourced Northern Hemisphere over last five decades, but also includes some recent Italy Poland. ectomycorrhizal interval permeate lower soils layers which host their mycelial networks, results a delayed manifestation radioactivity. Available Poland, similar periods, may suggest selective differences accumulation, with fruiting e.g. T. portentosum, showing activity levels relative others, equestre. Species like album, sulphurescens terreum show higher radiocaesium, reported observations few. The uneven spatial distribution combined limited number make it difficult decipher any temporal patterns Polish regions. When other European sites is included, variability apparent more Ukrainian appears relatively activities. 40K associated essential potassium, remains constant. Further monitoring would help consolidate these observations.