Plantnet's Mushroom Identification: What You Need To Know

PlantNet is a mobile application that identifies plants and mushrooms through image recognition. It offers a list of possible identifications ranked by order of certainty. Users can also explore image galleries shared by other users and consult species sheets to compare characteristics and refine their choices. While PlantNet is a reliable choice for getting a second opinion, its accuracy for mushrooms may be limited compared to specialized applications. Other mushroom recognition applications include Mushroom Observer, which is a collaborative platform that focuses on community engagement and education, and Champignouf, which specializes in mushroom identification through a photo-based recognition system. It is important to note that the accuracy of these applications varies, and they should be used with caution, especially when dealing with potentially toxic mushrooms.

PlantNet's accuracy for mushroom identification

PlantNet is one of many plant and fungi identification apps that have become increasingly popular among mycology enthusiasts, mushroom pickers, and hikers. These apps promise fast and accurate mushroom identification through image recognition, integrated databases, and detailed information. However, it is important to note that the accuracy of image recognition can vary significantly between applications. Mushrooms can look very similar, and photos may not always capture all the characteristics needed for confident identification, such as colour, texture, and smell.

While PlantNet does provide confidence scores for its identifications, it is unclear what factors are considered in calculating these scores. In one example, PlantNet identified a mushroom observation with 58% confidence as Geastrum sp. and Nostradamus Erothoth with 42% confidence. However, without additional information or expertise, it is challenging to determine the accuracy of these suggestions.

The accuracy of PlantNet and similar applications is a concern due to the potential dangers of misidentification. Toxic mushrooms can resemble edible species, and consuming the wrong type can have serious or even fatal consequences. Therefore, while these apps can be useful for raising awareness and encouraging further learning about mycology, they should not be solely relied on, especially by novices.

To improve the accuracy of PlantNet and other identification apps, users should follow recommended practices such as taking sharp and well-lit photos that capture multiple characteristics of the mushroom. Additionally, users should treat app identifications with caution and consult other sources or experts when in doubt. Developing personal identification skills through learning and exploration is essential to complement the use of these applications.

Other mushroom identification apps

While PlantNet does appear to have some functionality for mushroom identification, there are several other apps dedicated to this purpose. Mushroom identification apps have become popular, especially among people who want a quick answer. However, it is worth noting that not all identification apps are the same or equally reliable, and it is important not to place too much trust in them. A combination of mobile applications and physical guides is often recommended.

Shroomify

Shroomify is available for both Android and iOS and is free to use with an optional premium subscription. The app has a vast database of mushroom species and covers the US, Canada, Northern and Southern Europe, and the UK. It is streamlined and easy to use, with six buttons on the homepage: "Identify fungi", "Choose edible fungi", "The month's common fungi", "Deadly poisonous fungi", "Search by name", and "Foraging tips". It also has a robust search feature and allows you to opt to only display results for mushrooms currently fruiting in your area.

Picture Mushroom

Picture Mushroom is a popular photo recognition app for mushroom identification. It allows users to upload a photo of an unknown mushroom, and the community will help identify it. The app rapidly identifies mushrooms from pictures, but it is difficult to tell its accuracy rate or the number of species it covers.

Book of Mushrooms

The Book of Mushrooms app is exclusively available for Android users and is free. It can help identify over 250 mushroom species and contains over 1400 mushroom photos. It also contains helpful articles and a calendar of which mushrooms are fruiting when. However, if you want a more comprehensive list of mushrooms or in-depth information, this may not be the app for you.

Mushroom Identify

Mushroom Identify is an Android app great for visual learners. You can take a photo of any mushroom and get an ID within seconds. It has a robust search feature and tons of articles, but for more niche information, you may have to pay.

Mushroom Identificator

Mushroom Identificator is a free app that uses image recognition technology to identify mushrooms from pictures. It can currently recognize at least 900 species and provides a near-overwhelming amount of information on each mushroom, including how best to care for them. It also has a community forum where users can contact each other for advice.

Fungitron

Fungitron offers the "highest number of free mushrooms", with 70 high-quality photos and thorough descriptions. It also has an "Identification Mode" that allows you to filter mushrooms based on characteristics such as fungi type, cap shape, size, and other physical and environmental identifiers.

Mushroom identification on Facebook

Facebook groups and pages dedicated to mushroom identification can be a mixed bag. On the one hand, they provide a platform for enthusiasts to connect and share their findings. These communities can be a great place to learn from experienced members who generously share their knowledge. However, it is important to be discerning when evaluating the information provided. Not all advice is created equal, and incorrect mushroom identification can have serious consequences.

One issue with mushroom identification on Facebook is the reliance on visual identification. Members often post blurry or low-quality images, expecting a quick and accurate identification from other members. While some may provide helpful suggestions, there is a risk of misidentification due to the limited information provided. It is important to remember that proper mushroom identification requires a comprehensive examination, including details such as habitat, smell, and other characteristics, which cannot be adequately conveyed through images alone.

Additionally, social media platforms can sometimes foster an environment of overconfidence. The abundance of impressive harvest photos and wild mushroom recipes may create a perception that foraging is a straightforward and risk-free activity. However, this can lead novices to underestimate the dangers and approach mushroom identification with insufficient caution. It is crucial to remember that proper mushroom identification requires a deep understanding of mycology and the potential risks involved.

To ensure safe and accurate mushroom identification, it is recommended to seek information from multiple sources and cross-reference with trusted field guides and expert advice. While Facebook can be a valuable resource for connecting with fellow enthusiasts and seeking initial guidance, it should not be solely relied upon for definitive identifications. By combining online resources with practical field experience and expert knowledge, foragers can develop a more comprehensive understanding of mushroom identification and make better-informed decisions.

In conclusion, while Facebook and other social media platforms can be useful tools for mushroom identification, they should be approached with a critical eye. Foragers should exercise caution, verify information from multiple sources, and always prioritize their safety when dealing with wild mushrooms. Developing a well-rounded understanding of mushroom identification goes beyond quick identifications on social media and requires a commitment to learning and engaging with the natural world in a respectful and responsible manner.

The dangers of inaccurate identification

Mushroom identification apps are widely available and well-liked by many people. However, they can create a dangerous illusion of expertise, with some users placing too much faith in their accuracy. While these apps can be convenient, they should not be solely relied on for mushroom identification, as misidentification can have serious, or even fatal, consequences.

Mushroom identification apps are only correct about 50% of the time, according to a 2022 Australian study. This means that there is still a significant risk of misidentification, which can be life-threatening if a toxic mushroom is mistaken for an edible one. In Oregon, for example, an entire family was hospitalized after consuming toxic mushrooms that their app incorrectly identified as edible.

One of the biggest issues with AI-generated mushroom identification is its sensory limitations. Apps cannot smell or taste, and these are important identification tools used by foragers. In addition, these apps often cannot capture crucial identification features beyond the visual appearance of mushrooms, and they do not always consider seasonal variations or growing conditions. They also do not always cover all local species, especially rare or regional fungi.

Furthermore, the problem of misinformation extends beyond mobile apps. In 2023, Amazon released several AI-generated mushroom foraging books that contained potentially deadly misinformation. Major social media sites and search engines have also been known to provide cooking instructions for lethal mushroom species. Facebook (Meta) and Google, for instance, have both given cooking instructions for deadly mushrooms.

Therefore, it is important to approach mushroom identification apps and other sources of mushroom identification information with caution. These tools should not be solely relied on, and it is always recommended to consult an expert if in doubt.

How to use PlantNet

PlantNet is a free plant identification app that uses crowd-sourced photos and helpful information based on plant photo identification. It can be used to identify weeds and other mystery plants. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use the PlantNet app:

• Download the PlantNet app on your phone.
• Press the camera icon and take a photo of the plant you want to identify. Alternatively, you can choose a photo from your camera reel or one stored on your device.
• Tap the checkmark.
• Choose the feature that will best identify the plant, such as its leaves, flowers, or fruits.

It is important to note that PlantNet may not always be able to identify the plant correctly. In some cases, it may suggest an identification and then recommend identifying it in World Flora. Additionally, it is always a good idea to use multiple sources to verify the identification of a plant, as relying solely on an app can be dangerous.

Regarding mushroom identification, PlantNet does provide information on mushroom fungi. However, it is unclear if the app can identify specific mushroom species. It is recommended to use caution when using any app for mushroom identification, as some mushrooms can be poisonous.

Frequently asked questions