Exploring fungi responsibly: How to appreciate without disturbing
Fungi have fascinated people for centuries, from their role in ancient folklore to their importance in traditional medicine. Historically, mushrooms were both revered and feared—admired for their nutritious and healing properties, yet approached with caution due to their potential toxicity. While we now have a better understanding of fungi, there’s still much to learn about their ecological importance.
Tortworth Forest Centre is home to a stunning array of fungi, each playing a vital role in maintaining the health of our ecosystem. While their beauty and mystery captivate many, it’s essential to explore them responsibly. Fungi do much more than simply grow—they recycle nutrients, form symbiotic relationships with trees, provide unique habitats, and help maintain the balance of the forest. However, experts are still uncovering the full extent of fungi’s importance, and until we understand more, we must act cautiously to protect them.
Foraging for fungi might seem harmless, but even small actions can have significant impacts. By removing their fruiting bodies, we limit the ability of fungi to reproduce and could threaten the presence of particular species within the environment. In turn potentially depriving trees of beneficial relationships, disrupting natural cycles, and harming the species that depend on them. Whilst the fruiting bodies of certain species appear annually, or in abundance, a number of fungi have only been seen once or twice by our staff in the last decade. This is why we discourage fungi foraging within the arboretum. Until science fully understands the complexity of their role, we believe it’s safest to avoid disturbing them.
However, there are many ways to appreciate and learn about fungi in a non-destructive way. Here are a few responsible ways to explore:
Take a camera
Capture the fascinating shapes, colours, and textures of fungi with your camera. Not only will you create a record of what you’ve seen, but it also allows you to compare your finds later with guides or online identification tools. Remember to record the key details:
- Cap shape and colour
- Presence of gills or pores, along with colour and shape
- The stem or stipe, including the base
- A little of the context in which it is growing and which species are nearby
Use a mirror
Rather than picking mushrooms to view their gills, bring a small mirror. Gently angle it beneath the fungi to observe the unique structure of their gills or pores. This method lets you study the mushroom without any disruption. If without a mirror you can also use ‘selfie-mode’ on your camera.
Minimise damage
In certain species a key identifier is discolouration when cut damaged or bruised. If needed for identification, then a small area can be damaged without disrupting the fruiting body. Allowing for spores to still be released and the unique habitat to remain intact.
Identification apps and guides
There are several excellent fungi identification apps and field guides that can help you learn more about the species you encounter. At Tortworth we recommend ‘iNaturalist’, which is free for both apple and android users. Simply take photos of the fungi from different angles, and use these resources to enhance your knowledge.
Join a guided fungi walk
Many organisations, including Tortworth Forest Centre, offer guided walks during fungi season. These events are led by experts who can explain fungi identification and their ecological roles, offering a safe and respectful way to learn more.
By enjoying fungi with care, you can help protect a system we are only just beginning to understand, and preserve their critical role in the forest ecosystem. With these simple practices, we can protect their delicate life cycles while deepening our understanding and appreciation of the natural world, allowing them to continue to thrive for future generations.
