What is a MycoBlitz?
Ever hear of a BioBlitz? A BioBlitz is an event where all organisms are surveyed and recorded during a certain time frame within a certain geographic area.
A MycoBlitz is similar to a BioBlitz but focuses only on surveying, recording and cataloging the fungus found in a certain geographic area.
Why is this important?
From an environmental perspective, the fungi observed increase awareness of fungal species, diversity and scientifically contribute to the mycological community.
From a community standpoint, a MAMI MycoBlitz is a way for people to be a “Citizen Scientist”, learn about fungi and become involved in mycology.
MAMI hosts MycoBlitzes to engage and connect community members with the fungal environment through education and science. It’s also a way to forge new community partnerships with Nature Preserves, County Parks, land owners, etc.
What to expect during a MycoBlitz?
At a predetermined location, attendees typically hike a designated trail taking 5-15 minute breaks as they encounter unique ecosystems.
- At each break, attendees search the area and collect a few representative samples of the fungal specimens they encountered. (The focus is not about finding any single type of fungus or edible mushrooms!)
- The foray leader will signal it’s time to hike to the “next” location to search that area for fungus.
When the allotted time is up, all of the fungi are taken back to ‘home base’ where they are spread out to photograph and identify.
Field Data Slips are provided and are used to:
- Record details about the mushroom: Substrate, nearby tree species, soil type, smell, spore color, etc are important features used to accurately identify mushrooms.
- A specimen number is assigned for organizing the mushrooms.
- After uploading to iNaturalist, the iNaturalist number is recorded for the DNA and barcode information to be uploaded to.
A MAMI representative or volunteer takes the specimens to be dried. After they are “cracker crisp”, each specimen is placed in a bag with its Field Data Slip and sent for DNA analysis.
How should I prepare for a MycoBlitz?
It’s advised to dress comfortably but wisely. Long sleeved shirts and long pants are recommended – especially during “tick season”.
During hunting seasons, attendees are encouraged to wear an article of clothing which is “blaze orange” like a hat or vest.
Wear closed toe shoes; remember, the MycoBlitz is meant to cover a variety of habitats where it could be dry in one spot and might be very muddy in another location.
What should I bring to a MycoBlitz?
To collect specimens during the MycoBlitz, it’s recommended to bring the following:
- Basket, paper bag, single sided wax paper bag and/or a small multi-chambered tacklebox.
- Small knife (less than 3″ blade is sufficient).
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen
- Water
When and where are the MAMI MycoBlitzes?
Need a Field Data Slip for your own observations? Click here to print or download a generic Field Data Slip.
Interested in iNaturalist and DNA Sequencing? Click any of the logos below
Learn about DNA sequencing here:
