After sexual reproduction occurs between hyphae from opposite mating strains a mushroom forms to produce the reproductive spores. The spores are found in the gills or pores of the mushroom. Most mushrooms belong to the Phylum Basidiomycota. Click here to see a diagram . About edibility The only way to tell which mushrooms are safe to eat is to identify the mushrooms.
Identification requires microscopic examination of the spores as well as the fleshy mushroom.
Some poisonous mushrooms closely resemble edible species and poisonings occur when the picker Uses a superficial trait such as cap color. Remembers picking a similar looking mushroom in that same locale. Is unfamiliar with local species.