Module 8
ID to Family Part III & Parasitism
Homework
For homework with this section we are going to make a group presentation of parasitic fungi. Just like we did with the Mushroom Toxin presentation, every one will take a parasitic species or topic and add their information on a slide in the combined presentation. We will then present to each other at our next study group zoom meeting.
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This is an exciting and fascinating module! Fungi and plants that use other mushrooms and mycelium as their hosts have a lot to offer. Below are some resources to get you started.
Here is the link to add your information to the shared Google Slides https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1Kcrke5spkdYPhTrZZstROxsIZyF3tp6TZvmO2fSKiug/edit?usp=sharing
Please include this in your slide about parasitic fungi
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Classification: Kingdom, Division, Subdivision, Class, Order, Family, Genus and species
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Identifying features of that parasitic Plant or Fungi
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What fungi are they parasitizing
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photographs of the parasitic fungi and host (if possible)
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Habitat
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Season
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Toxic/edible/medicinal?
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Possible topics /fungi / plants to work on:
Cordyceps
Hypomyces
Mycoheterotrphs
Other parasite Fungi
Post at least two specimens to your iNaturalist profile.
Finally, since we will be incorporating a microscope in every session, continue working on making cross sections of a mushroom and see if you can get more practice at it. Try and section a parasitic fungi and see if you notice anything new.
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Foray
Plan a foray with your group. You can used Doodle to help quickly vote on the schedule that works for everyone.
1) Decide on a place and time to go.
2) Meet up and caravan to the location or meet at the location.
3) Follow all WVMS Foray Safety protocols and take the Safety Class if you have not done so.
4) Make sure you have a full tank of gas.
5) Bring: basket, field id cards, pen, small compartmentalized container, wax bags, your own lunch (no sharing), hand lens, or minimum 10x eye loupe, 6" scale in metric and English, compass/GPS, rain gear, first aid kit, watch and whistle.
6) Limit your forays to one hour.
Afterwards, gather and discuss finds.
Group Discussion
During the pandemic we suggest using Google Meets or Zoom to have discussions. Find a day/time that works for everyone to discuss your finds. These discussions are an important part of the learning process. If your group is having issues, please reach out and invite a Mentor to your discussion and we will help point you in the right direction.
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After the pandemic or when it is safe, we highly suggest getting together for a group discussion and hands on learning event. Plan on a discussion that will last about 2-3 hours.
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On this foray you will be trying to ID mushrooms to the family and possibly genus in the field. Read the homework and bring a field guide*. Try practicing taking a spore print while on the foray. Bring a white index card, wax bag, and a knife to cut off the stipe. Don't forget to write down the habitat and weather conditions. Try and gather multiple specimens if you can. In the meetup afterwards, let each group member present their family presentations to the others. Make sure to take notes!
Resources
​Check out our Resources Page for resources on mushroom families.
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