Fungi are an often-overlooked yet fascinating group in the natural world. Once classified as plants, fungi are now recognised as a distinct kingdom, thanks to groundbreaking studies in the 20th century. Despite their essential ecological role, fungi were largely overshadowed by more visually striking plants and flowers until recently. However, in recent years, fungi have seen a surge in interest, with more community fungi walks, region-specific field guides and online groups focused on fungi identification and photography.

In fact, platforms like iNaturalist show fungi making up approximately 25% of all submissions in some regions, highlighting a growing passion for these remarkable organisms. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced enthusiast, learning to identify fungi in the field can be both rewarding and educational.

With this growing interest in fungi, let’s explore some key tips to help you identify these remarkable organisms when you’re out in the field.

Top 10 Tips for Identifying Fungi in the Wild

1. Take a Context Photo of the Fungi

Start by photographing the fungi in its natural habitat. Many fungi species closely resemble one another, but they often grow in specific environments like rotting logs, forest floors, or living trees. A context photo helps document the surroundings and provides a sense of scale, aiding in proper identification.

2. Observe Nearby Trees and Plants

Fungi often have symbiotic relationships with specific tree species. By noting or photographing the surrounding vegetation, you can gather valuable clues for identifying the fungi, as they tend to thrive near certain plants or trees.

3. Photograph the Cap Up Close

A close-up, bird’s-eye view of the cap is crucial. Capture its texture (smooth, rough, glossy, matte, or flaky), as these details can be significant for identification. Be sure to photograph the shape and colour, as these are often key characteristics.

4. Examine the Substrate

Fungi can grow on a variety of substrates, including soil, wood, or leaf litter. Make a note of the substrate (either in writing or through photos) as this will be an important factor in identifying the species correctly.

5. Capture a Clear Photo of the Stipe (Stalk)

Ensure you take a photo of the entire stipe, including its base. Characteristics of the stalk, such as its size, texture, and colour, can be key features for accurate identification.

6. Note the Smell of the Fungi

Some fungi emit distinct odours at various growth stages. Describe the smell as specifically as possible — is it earthy, fruity, or even rotten? This sensory detail can provide useful information when identifying certain fungi.

7. Photograph the Underside of the Cap

The gills or pores under the cap are essential features for identification. It can be tricky to photograph the underside without disturbing the fungus. A handy tip is to use a small mirror (such as a dental mirror) to reflect light under the cap and get a clearer shot without causing harm.

8. Observe for Changes When Handling

Some fungi change appearance when touched. Look for color changes or texture alterations on the cap or stipe when gently handling the specimen. These changes can provide clues to the species or genus.

9. Take a Cross-Section of the Fungi (Advanced Tip)

For advanced identification, consider making a vertical cross-section of the fungus. Use a small, sharp knife to carefully slice the specimen, but always be mindful of the impact on the organism. In many cases, you can identify fungi down to the genus or family level without needing to cut it open.

10. Make a Spore Print (When Necessary)

To further narrow down your identification, create a spore print. Place the cap (without the stipe) on a piece of white and black paper. Spores will fall and form a print that can help identify the species. This technique should be reserved for more in-depth identification, as it involves removing part of the fungus from its habitat.

Join the Fungi Community for More Insights

For those increasingly fascinated by the world of fungi, joining local naturalist groups or participating in online identification forums can be incredibly rewarding. Regional Facebook groups and platforms like iNaturalist offer helpful and relevant insights into fungi identification and can provide rapid responses. Additionally, we have gathered a collection of excellent fungi resources, which you can view here.

If you’re interested in taking your fungi exploration to the next level, get in touch about our custom fungi tours. We offer these tours in Indochina and Australia, visiting some of the most unique species in the world, such as the Ghost Fungus!