How to identify Lobster Mushroom

To correctly identify Lobster Mushroom (Hypomyces lactifluorum), check each of these features in order. Misidentification is the most common cause of mushroom poisoning, so cross-reference multiple sources.

Step-by-step identification

1. 1

   Cap

   Shape, color, surface texture, and diameter.

   The cap is usually unrecognizable due to the parasitic deformation. It lacks typical mushroom features.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   Gills are absent due to the parasitic deformation. The host mushroom's gills are replaced by the fungal growth.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The stem is also deformed and may be difficult to distinguish from the rest of the fruiting body.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is firm and white, often with a dense texture.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   The fruiting body is a deformed mushroom, typically reddish-orange, hard, and dense.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Found in coniferous and mixed forests, parasitizing Russula or Lactarius species.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Deformed, hard, and dense

Growth Form

Parasitic

Spore Print

White to pale yellow (on the host mushroom)

Body color

Reddish-orange

Odor

Seafood-like

Flesh bruises

Does not typically bruise

Height

Variable, depending on the host mushroom

Cap Diameter

Variable, depending on the host mushroom

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Absent (gills of the host mushroom are deformed)
• Stem shape: Deformed, often unrecognizable
• Stem surface: Deformed
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: Solid

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