White bilberries found in Karelia forests

Local residents in Kostomuksha, Republic of Karelia, discovered a rare mutation of white bilberries growing in the forest about 20 km from the city. The white berries are the result of a natural mutation affecting anthocyanin production, making them nearly colorless but still edible.

Consensus

• White bilberries were found in the forests of Kostomuksha, Republic of Karelia.
• The discovery was made by local resident Tatyana Shelina.
• The white berries grow approximately 20 km from the city.
• This is a natural mutation caused by a disruption in anthocyanin production.
• The berries are nearly colorless due to the lack of pigmentation.
• The white bilberries are edible and taste similar to regular bilberries.
• They should not be confused with the white berries of the snowberry plant, which are toxic.

Points of divergence

• The white bilberries have a slightly sweeter taste than regular ones. — riamo
• The white bilberries have been observed growing in the same location every year. — riamo

Coverage (2 sources)

• White berries: rare mutant blackberry found in forests of Karelia — РИАМО
• Rare white blueberry found in Karelian forests — Вести

Key entities

• Karelia
• Tatyana Shelina
• Capital on Onega
• Moscow
• Republic of Karelia
• Kostomuksha