Warning: In survival situations, mushrooms are rarely worth the caloric risk. However, knowing a few foolproof species can supplement a starvation diet. This guide is for educational purposes only.
The Golden Rule
"There are old mushroom hunters, and there are bold mushroom hunters. But there are no old, bold mushroom hunters."
The "Foolproof" Four
Beginners should stick to species that have no deadly lookalikes in their region.
1. Morel (Morchella spp.)
Distinctive honeycomb cap. Hollow stem when sliced lengthwise. False morels are solid or filled with cottony fibers.
2. Chicken of the Woods (Laetiporus sulphureus)
Bright orange/yellow polypore growing on trees. No gills, just pores underneath. Tastes like chicken.
3. Puffballs (Calvatia gigantea)
Solid white meat inside. No gills, no pattern. If it is black or yellow inside, it is toxic. If it has the outline of a mushroom inside, it is a deadly Amanita egg.
4. Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus)
White spines/icicles hanging down. Grows on hardwood. Very distinct look.
Deadly Mistakes
Avoid any mushroom with:
- White gills
- A ring around the stem (annulus)
- A bulbous cup at the base (volva)
- Red color on the cap or stem
This rules out the Destroying Angel and Death Cap, which kill more people than any other fungi.