Tutorial on Spore prints of mushrooms

Dec 10, 2018 • 12:03 AM UTC

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Microorganisms

JDua_SD21

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Spore prints – These are made by the many microscopic spores falling from the mushroom, leaving a photographic impression.
Significance – Each mushroom forms a characteristic pattern, so useful in identification and also a source of obtaining clean and homogenous spores for mushroom cultivation.

Methodology:
Pick out a mature mushroom Remove the stem so that only the cap remains Place the cap on a piece of paper with the spore side down Cover the mushroom with glass bowl Keep it undisturbed for a day or so Remove the bowl and view your print.

Some important points to remember for making perfect spore prints :
Spore prints vary in size and depend on the size of the mushroom cap that drops the spores Spore size depends on the species of mushrooms Species with small caps leave small spore prints Use a mature mushroom as it has more spores to print. A freshly picked mushroom is more likely to have live spores than a store-bought one Avoid using mushrooms that are shriveled, bruised or appear old. Flat mushrooms create the best prints This post is open to read and review on The Winnower.