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Writer's pictureTyler A Deem

Spore Prints: Fungi Impressions I

TIMELAPSE SPORE PRINT

Stropharia rugosoannulata


When identifying mushrooms for consumption, one important indicator of the proper type or species of fungi is reading the dispersion of spores over a surface, called a 'spore print'. The color is an identifying characteristic that usually follows the identification of the mushroom morphology (the visual characteristics of the mushroom structure) and gill structure.


Stropharia rugosoannulata Spore print 1 (Detail), 2021. Digital Photograph.


The soft impressions left by the mushroom after about 12 hours leave natural gradients of texture of scientific value as well as a being beautiful expressions of art. Not only providing identification, the spores have the potential to spread the fungus, often assisted by the wind or breeze. These images reveal the temporary meaning of life expressed in beautiful form and texture.


Stropharia rugosoannulata Spore print 1, 2021. Digital Photograph.

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