With smart phones and AI, it is easier than ever to get help with mushroom identification but be warned it’s ALWAYS important to get an expert to validate especially if you plan to eat the mushroom. Don’t be afraid to get up close and use your macro settings. All mushroom can be touched so don’t fear. Here are some tips for taking photos Jeremy Even Flint to help increase your chances of getting a positive identification.
Once you are done taking photos add your observations to iNaturalist, get the AI suggestion and then post your guess on our Facebook group, tag us on Instagram or send us an email. We are here to help!
1. TAKE PictureS of the mushrooms undisturbed in their natural environment. What kind of trees and plants are around? If it’s growing from wood, what kind?
2: TAKE Clear and detailed shots of the top of the cap.
3. TAKE PictureS of the UNDERSIDE WHERE SPORES ARE RELEASED.
Make sure stem is attached, you can also use a knife of trowel to dig under soil to make sure the volva and stem stays intact.
4. TAKE Pictures of the entire mushroom, including the base
(Especially important in Amanita sp.)
5. TAKE Pictures of a cross-section
Note any staining that occurs when the mushroom is damaged.
6. INCLUDE Other important information when asking for identification help INCLUDING: Time/Date, Location, Smell, What is it growing from? Wood, soil, grass, leaf litter, sand, mulch.
Learn wild, edible mushrooms fruiting in Texas after rain.
Comes with download of a Wild Edible Mushroom Calendar.