How to Identify Fungus
The fungus family includes a number of organisms such as yeast, mold and the ever-popular mushroom. If you're an avid mushroom fanatic or just a person who loves learning about nature, fungi identification can be a challenging yet rewarding subject. It's important to be able to identify a fungus because there are just as many deadly poisonous mushrooms as there are edible ones. While no single characteristic can be used to identify all mushrooms as poisonous or edible, you can keep your fungus experiences pleasant and memorable by following a few useful guidelines.
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Instructions
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Examine your fungus sample. Make a note of its size, shape, texture, color and smell.
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The most commonly ingested poisonous mushroom is the Yellow Stainer, since it looks very similar to common edible mushrooms. Yellow Stainers are often 50-200 mm in diameter, white, a little square and stain yellow when damaged. They also emit a disinfectant-like chemical odor. If your sample fits this description, it should be discarded.
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One of the most dangerous fungi is the Death Cap, which is potentially fatal when consumed. The caps are 40-160 mm in diameter and pale yellow to olive brown with white gills. A noticeable membranous cup is at the base of the stem. Avoid consuming this mushroom at all costs.
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If you're lucky, your sample is not a Yellow Stainer nor a Death Cap. Using your fungus field guide, make comparisons between your sample to the other fungi in the book.
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If your sample is deemed edible, be sure to cook it thoroughly before consuming it since some mushrooms may emit some toxins if eaten raw. If you ever have any doubt regarding your sample, you should discard it immediately.
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Tips & Warnings
If you are uncertain about about a fungus' identification, play it safe and throw it away. Always cook wild fungi to prevent poisoning and avoid serving it to young children, the elderly or sick people. Avoid drinking alcohol with unknown mushroom types as they may create an adverse reaction when combined.
