ID-0006 · Mushroom Identification
Identify Wild Mushrooms
Chanterelles, morels, hen of the woods, bracket fungi — learn what you're looking at.
About mushroom identification
Mushroom identification is one of the most rewarding — and most consequential — skills in the natural world. Spotter helps you identify mushrooms with detailed species reference information: common name, scientific name, key identifying features, known toxic lookalikes, and habitat notes.
Important: Spotter provides reference information to help you learn about mushroom species. It is not a substitute for expert verification. Never rely solely on any app or guide when making decisions about wild mushrooms — always consult a local mycological society or experienced expert.
For a better identification
- Photograph the cap (top), gills or pores (underside), stem (including base), and any ring or cup-like structure.
- Include a photo of a cross-section — hollow stems and pore structure are critical ID features.
- Never rely on a single identification feature. Cap color alone is not sufficient.
- Look at the very base of the stem: some deadly Amanitas have a cup-like sac (volva) that is easy to leave in the ground.
- Note any color change when the flesh is cut or bruised; it is a useful identification clue.
- App results are reference information only. When in doubt, consult an expert.
Field guides
- 6 speciesHow to Identify Wild Mushrooms in Wisconsin
- 6 speciesMushroom Foraging in the Pacific Northwest: Oregon & Washington
- 4 speciesHow to Identify Mushrooms in the Great Lakes Region
- 4 speciesHow to Identify Mushrooms in the Appalachian Mountains
- 4 speciesHow to Identify Wild Plants & Mushrooms in Ohio
Field Notes
- How to Identify Wild Mushrooms Safely (And When to Walk Away)
- What Is the Orange Jelly Blob on the Log? Identifying Witch’s Butter and Its Jelly-Fungus Kin
- What Is the Star-Shaped Fungus Sitting on the Ground? Identifying Earthstars
- What Are the Tiny Cups Full of "Eggs" in My Mulch? Identifying Bird’s Nest Fungi
- What Are the Little Brown Mushrooms Popping Up All Over My Lawn?
- What Are the Orange Mushrooms Clustered on the Stump? Identifying the Jack-o’-Lantern (and Why It Fools Foragers)
More: Mushrooms & Fungi
How Spotter compares
Mushroom: name it from a photo
Free to download. You get the name, field marks, look-alikes, habitat and safety notes on your phone.
