Mycoblitz is one of the coolest citizen science projects on the scene right now. The idea is simple: There are around 14,000 identified species of mushrooms currently, but an estimated 3-4 million in existence. Mycota is an awesome lab of mycologists in Ann Arbor, Michigan and they’re working to DNA sequence and catalog the vast number of mushrooms that people are finding across North America. It’s free to participate – you can take any mushrooms that you find this week, dry them out and mail up to 10 specimens to Mycota where they will DNA sequence them (and even get them identified if you aren’t sure what they are!) and add them to the iNaturalist database. Below are their instructions for how to submit the mushrooms that you find from now through October 27, 2024. You can check out Mycota’s website here and join in the Mycoblitz iNaturalist project here.
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How to Participate in Mycota’s Fall Continental MycoBlitz 2024
Fall Continental MycoBlitz 2024: A Guide to Participating
Welcome to the 2024 Continental MycoBlitz, running from October 18 – 27, 2024! This is the third annual continental-scale mushroom foray, organized by Mycota to document North America’s diverse macrofungi. This year’s target is the Hygrophorus species. Whether you’re a seasoned mycologist or a curious beginner, your participation can make a huge impact. Below, you’ll find all the details and instructions on how to get involved.
What is a MycoBlitz?
A MycoBlitz is similar to a “BioBlitz,” but specifically focused on fungi. Participants collaborate to catalog as many species as possible within a defined timeframe and geographic area. Mycota’s goal this year is to gather and sequence mushroom specimens to deepen our understanding of North American fungal biodiversity.
How to Participate
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Prepare Your Materials:
- Download Voucher Slips: Print out the required CM24- voucher slips here. Each specimen collected should have a unique voucher number.
- Download the iNaturalist App: Available on both Android and iOS. Alternatively, use the web platform for recording observations.
- Join the iNaturalist Project: Search for and join the “Fall Continental MycoBlitz 2024” project on iNaturalist. Participation is possible using your preferred device.
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Field Collection Tips:
- Photograph Mushrooms: Take clear photos from multiple angles—side, top, stem, and spore-bearing surfaces (gills/pores). This documentation is crucial.
- Use Voucher Slips: Record the voucher number in the “Voucher Number(s)” field on iNaturalist using the format “CM24-XXXXX.” Write this number on the bag or slip, ensuring it’s visible.
- Collect and Bag Specimens: Place each specimen in a Ziplock snack or sandwich bag, ensuring it matches the CM24- voucher slip. Avoid other bag types, as they will need to be rebagged.
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Drying and Preparing Specimens:
- Dry the Specimens: Use a dehydrator or fan until specimens are “cracker dry” (2 hours – 3 days). Keep the voucher slip with the specimen during this process.
- Label the Bags: Once dry, place the voucher slip and specimen in a Ziplock bag. Include the iNaturalist observation number and species name if known.
- Mail Your Specimens: Submit up to 10 dried specimens to the processing facility. Contact steve@hoosiermushrooms.org when ready to ship.
FAQs
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Do I have to send 10 specimens?
No, participants can engage with any number of observations or specimens, even if they choose not to send any. -
Can I submit observations after the event?
Yes, Mycota accepts specimens and uploads beyond the foray week, but try to upload and mail them as soon as possible. -
What if I can’t identify the mushroom?
No problem! Label it as “Fungi” on iNaturalist, and Mycota’s experts will assist.
Important Notes for Collectors
- Use only snack or sandwich-sized Ziplock bags.
- Ensure the voucher slip is visible from the outside.
- Remove air from bags before shipping to preserve specimens.
Get Involved!
This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the mycological community. Mycota hopes to uncover new species and expand our understanding of fungi in North America, and your participation is crucial. Let’s explore the fungal world together!
For further details, visit MycoBlitz.