The Mudcat Café TM
Thread #104136   Message #2128948
Posted By: Slag
18-Aug-07 - 10:38 PM
Thread Name: Fungi identification
Subject: RE: Fungi identification
There are books which give the descriptions of the spores. Invest in a microscope. This is the only way to really be sure. This was my son's hobby from about age 13 and on. Most of the edible ones have a poisonous counterpart. Some of the poisons may just make you sick to your stomach like the Jack-O-Lantern. Collect with someone who is experienced. When in doubt, DON'T! If you don't know an experienced collector or can't swing a microscope, stick with Chanterelles, Morels, Puff Balls or the Coxcombs (the fins growing out of tree stumps). These have no poisonous counterparts in North America. I don't no about Europe or elsewhere.