Mushroom Gill Attachments

The gills (lamellae) attach to the stem (stipe) in many unique ways. The characteristics of a mushroom's gill attachment aid in the identification. The age of a specimen is significant when observing gill attachments as they could break away (Seceding) as the mushroom matures. Describe the magnitude or breadth of the gills using terms such as broad, narrow, or ventricose. Ventricose means the gills have a swollen midsection. Also, inspect the thickness of the gills to assist in accurate identification.

Cutting a cross-section in the mushroom gives the best vantage point for observing the gill attachment.

Adnate

Gills that are broadly attached to the stipe.

Adnexed

Gills are narrowly attached to the stipe.

Sinuate

Gills are smoothly notched before slighting running down the stipe.

Emarginate

Gills are notched abruptly before attaching to the stipe.

Seceding

Gills appear torn away or hanging, but where attached at some point in time. Evidence of the attachment may remain on the stipe, usually occurs in older specimens.

Decurrent

Gills are attached and extend down the stipe.

Subdecurrent

Gills are attached and slightly extend down the stipe.

Free

Gills do not attach to the stipe.

Collared

Gills are attached to a collar or ring that encircles the stipe.

Enhance Your Phone Macro Photography

The AOMAIS Pro Camera Lens has been a game-changer for my macro photography. The macro lens is huge, a little over an inch and a half in diameter. It seems to allow for a wider focal point and reduces ghosting, lens flares, and other issues from a lesser quality clip-on lens.

The kit includes an 18x macro lens, 0.45x wide-angle lens, a rechargeable clip-on light, a compact carrying case, and a quick-release lanyard—a perfect kit for any mushroom hunter without an SLR camera. The clip-on light might be my favorite feature as I never head out on a walk without it.

The proof is in the fungi; here are a few photos using the AOMAIS macro lens: