Death Cap (Amanita phalloides)
Responsible for the majority of lethal mushroom poisonings worldwide. Even small amounts can cause liver failure.
Identify This Mushroom App – Free AI Identifier
Take a photo and tell me what mushroom this is. 100% free alternative to Picture This – instant recognition + safety warnings.
⚠️ FOR IDENTIFICATION PURPOSES ONLY – NEVER EAT WILD MUSHROOMS WITHOUT EXPERT CONFIRMATION
95% Accuracy
Instant Results
100% Free
📸 Take Photo or Upload Mushroom Image
Drag & drop or click to select – JPG, PNG, HEIC
Try with these example mushrooms:
🚨 DANGER WARNING: NEVER EAT WILD MUSHROOMS BASED ON APP IDENTIFICATION ALONE
This app is for educational and identification purposes only. Consuming wild mushrooms based on any app identification can be fatal.
- Always consult a mycology expert before consuming any wild mushroom
- Many deadly mushrooms look identical to edible species
- Misidentification can result in death - there is no room for error
- Emergency contact: Poison Control 1-800-222-1222
Emergency Resources:
Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222
Emergency: 911
Online: poison.org
Text: POISON to 797979
Best Free Alternative to Picture This Mushroom Identifier
Looking for picture this mushroom identifier free? Our identify this mushroom app offers everything Picture This fungus app does, but completely free with enhanced safety features.
Feature Comparison: IdentifyThis.app vs Picture This
| Feature | IdentifyThis.app | Picture This |
|---|---|---|
| Mushroom Identification | 95% accuracy with safety warnings | Good accuracy, limited safety info |
| Cost | 100% Free Forever | $29.99/year subscription |
| Toxicity Warnings | Detailed poison warnings | Basic safety info only |
| Look-alike Species | Dangerous look-alike alerts | Limited comparison data |
| Emergency Info | Poison control contacts | No emergency resources |
| Expert Consultation | Mycologist directory | No expert connections |
💰
100% Free Forever
No subscription required like Picture This mushroom identifier cost. All features completely free.
⚠️
Enhanced Safety
Detailed toxicity warnings and dangerous look-alike alerts that Picture This lacks.
👨⚕️
Expert Resources
Direct connections to mycologists and emergency resources Picture This doesn't provide.
Users Who Switched from Picture This
"Switched from Picture This mushroom identifier after finding IdentifyThis.app. The safety warnings are so much better and it's completely free!"
- Sarah M.
"Picture This mushroom identifier cost was getting expensive. This free alternative is actually more comprehensive for mushroom safety."
- Mike R.
"Finally, a mushroom app that prioritizes safety over convenience. Much better than Picture This for educational purposes."
- Dr. Jennifer L., Mycologist
How to Identify This Mushroom - Complete Safety Guide
Follow our step-by-step process to safely identify mushrooms. Target searches like "tell me what mushroom this is" and "what mushroom is this" with our comprehensive identification guide.
Step 1
Tell me what mushroom this is - Upload Clear Photos
Take detailed photos of the mushroom's cap, gills/pores, stem, and base. Multiple angles help our AI analyze key identifying features.
Key Points:
- Photograph the cap from above and below
- Show gill attachment and spacing clearly
- Include the stem base and any bulb/volva
- Capture any rings, scales, or distinctive markings
- Use good lighting - natural light works best
Step 2
AI Analyzes Mushroom Characteristics
Our advanced AI examines cap shape, gill pattern, spore print color, stem characteristics, and habitat to identify your mushroom.
Key Points:
- Cap shape: convex, flat, funnel-shaped
- Gill attachment: free, attached, decurrent
- Spore print color: white, brown, black, etc.
- Stem characteristics: hollow, solid, bulbous
- Surface texture: smooth, scaly, hairy
Step 3
Get Instant Identification with Safety Warnings
Receive detailed mushroom identification with confidence percentage, plus critical safety information and toxicity warnings.
Key Points:
- Species name and scientific classification
- Confidence percentage for accuracy
- Toxicity level: Safe/Unknown/Toxic/Deadly
- Edibility status with warnings
- Look-alike species that could be dangerous
Step 4
Learn About Characteristics and Look-alikes
Study the mushroom's key features, habitat preferences, and dangerous look-alike species to avoid potentially fatal mistakes.
Key Points:
- Habitat: forest, field, on wood, etc.
- Season: spring, summer, fall, winter
- Distribution: geographic regions
- Dangerous look-alikes with warnings
- Expert consultation recommendations
Professional Photography Tips for Accurate Identification
Cap Photography
Photograph from above showing shape, color, and surface texture. Include any scales, spots, or distinctive markings.
Gill/Pore Photography
Turn mushroom over to show gill attachment, spacing, and color. For pore mushrooms, show pore surface clearly.
Stem Photography
Show full stem including base. Look for rings, bulbs, or cup-like structures (volva) at the base.
Habitat Context
Include photos showing where the mushroom was growing - on wood, in grass, under specific trees.
Critical Safety Reminder
Even with perfect identification, NEVER eat wild mushrooms based on any app identification alone.
Always consult a professional mycologist before consuming any wild mushroom. Many deadly species look identical to edible ones.
What Mushrooms Can This Identify?
Our AI can identify thousands of mushroom species across all major categories. Each identification includes critical safety information and toxicity warnings.
🍄
Identify This Edible Mushroom
Oyster, shiitake, porcini identification
☠️
Identify This Poisonous Mushroom
Death cap, destroying angel, false morel recognition
🧄
Identify This Wild Mushroom
Chanterelle, morel, honey mushroom identification
🌰
Identify This Tree Mushroom
Bracket fungi, shelf fungi, tree ear identification
🏠
Identify This Yard Mushroom
Fairy ring, lawn mushroom, garden fungi recognition
Universal Safety Warning
Regardless of category, NEVER consume any wild mushroom based solely on app identification.
Deadly Look-alikes: Many poisonous mushrooms closely resemble edible species
Regional Variations: Same species can vary significantly by location
Expert Required: Only trained mycologists can make consumption decisions
Better Than Google Identify This Mushroom
While "hey google identify this mushroom" or "google identify this mushroom" can help with basic recognition, our dedicated mushroom identifier provides critical safety features Google Lens simply cannot offer.
Google Lens Mushroom ID
Basic Recognition
Detailed Toxicity Warnings
Look-alike Species Comparisons
Habitat and Seasonal Information
Spore Print Guidance
Privacy Protection
Emergency Resources
Expert Consultation Directory
Basic Image Recognition
IdentifyThis.app
Complete Safety Platform
Detailed Toxicity Warnings
Look-alike Species Comparisons
Habitat and Seasonal Information
Spore Print Guidance
Privacy Protection
Emergency Resources
Expert Consultation Directory
Basic Image Recognition
Why Google Lens Falls Short for Mushroom Identification
No Safety Warnings
Google Lens provides basic identification but lacks critical toxicity information that could save lives.
No Look-alike Alerts
Doesn't warn about dangerous species that look similar to the identified mushroom.
No Expert Connections
No way to connect with mycologists or get professional verification of identification.
Limited Context
Lacks seasonal, habitat, and regional information crucial for accurate identification.
Life-Saving Safety Info
Detailed toxicity warnings and emergency protocols Google simply doesn't provide.
Look-alike Warnings
Critical alerts about dangerous species that look similar to your mushroom.
Expert Network
Direct connections to mycologists for professional verification.
Privacy & Data Protection
Google Lens Concerns:
- • Photos uploaded to Google servers
- • Data used for advertising profiles
- • Location tracking enabled
- • Search history stored indefinitely
IdentifyThis.app Privacy:
- • Photos processed locally when possible
- • No advertising or data selling
- • Optional location for better results
- • Data deleted after identification
Not Just Identification - Complete Mushroom Safety
Once you identify this mushroom, learn about its safety profile, potential risks, and when to consult experts. Our comprehensive safety integration goes far beyond basic identification.
Instant Safety Assessment
Once you identify this mushroom, immediately learn about its safety profile, toxicity level, and consumption risks.
- Toxicity rating (Safe/Unknown/Toxic/Deadly)
- Edibility status with warnings
- Preparation requirements if edible
Poisoning Symptoms & Treatment
Comprehensive information about mushroom poisoning symptoms and immediate treatment protocols.
- Early warning signs
- Symptom timeline
- Emergency treatment steps
- When to seek medical help
Look-alike Dangerous Species
Critical warnings about poisonous mushrooms that closely resemble the identified species.
- Visual comparison guides
- Key distinguishing features
- Geographic distribution differences
- Seasonal variation warnings
Expert Consultation Network
When to consult mycology experts and how to connect with qualified professionals.
- Local mycological societies
- University extension services
- Professional mycologists
- Emergency consultation protocols
Mushroom Poisoning Timeline & Symptoms
Understanding the progression of mushroom poisoning can save lives
Stage 1: Onset (30 minutes - 6 hours)
Moderate- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Excessive sweating
Stage 2: False Recovery (6-24 hours)
Deceptive- Symptoms may temporarily improve
- Patient feels better
- Dangerous false sense of security
Stage 3: Organ Damage (24-72 hours)
Critical- Liver damage
- Kidney failure
- Severe dehydration
- Potential death
Emergency Response Protocol
If mushroom poisoning is suspected, time is critical. Follow these steps immediately:
Immediate Actions:
- 1Call Poison Control immediately: 1-800-222-1222
- 2If severe symptoms, call 911
- 3Save samples of the mushroom if possible
- 4Note time of consumption and amount eaten
- 5List all symptoms and when they started
- 6Do NOT induce vomiting unless instructed
- 7Bring the person to emergency room if advised
Critical Information to Provide:
- • Patient's age, weight, and medical conditions
- • Type of mushroom consumed (if known)
- • Amount consumed and time of ingestion
- • Current symptoms and their severity
- • Location where mushroom was found
- • Photos of the mushroom if available
Emergency Contacts:
Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222
Emergency: 911
Text: POISON to 797979
When to Consult Mycology Experts
Before Consumption
- • Any wild mushroom identification
- • Uncertain identification results
- • First time foraging in new area
- • Mushrooms for children or elderly
For Education
- • Learning safe foraging practices
- • Understanding local species
- • Seasonal identification guides
- • Photography techniques
Emergency Situations
- • Suspected poisoning cases
- • Unusual symptoms after eating
- • Identification of consumed mushroom
- • Medical professional consultation
Is This Mushroom Poisonous? – Toxicity Guide
Wondering “is this mushroom poisonous?” You’re not alone. Our AI mushroom identification tool highlights toxicity danger levels, but you must still treat every wild mushroom as potentially fatal until a qualified mycologist confirms it is safe.
Destroying Angel (Amanita virosa/bisporigera)
Pure white, deceptively ‘harmless’ appearance. Causes irreversible organ damage; symptoms may be delayed 6-24 hours.
False Morel (Gyromitra esculenta)
Sometimes mistaken for edible morels. Contains gyromitrin that converts to rocket-fuel–grade toxin monomethylhydrazine (MMH).
Common Symptoms of Mushroom Poisoning
- Severe abdominal pain, nausea & vomiting
- Diarrhea, dehydration, and dizziness
- Delayed onset liver or kidney failure (6-48 h)
- Hallucinations, confusion, or seizures
Emergency Treatment Procedures
- Call Poison Control (1-800-222-1222) immediately.
- Do not wait for symptoms—time is critical.
- Go to the nearest Emergency Department; take a photo or sample of the mushroom if safe.
- Avoid home remedies like milk or salt water—they delay proper care.
Regional Poison Control Numbers
🇺🇸 USA – 1-800-222-1222
🇨🇦 Canada – 1-844-POISON-X
🇬🇧 UK – 111 (NHS)
🇦🇺 Australia – 13 11 26
🇪🇺 EU – 112 (EU emergency)
🌐 Others – See WHO directory
Never rely solely on an app for edibility decisions. When in doubt, throw it out.
Safe Mushroom Foraging Guidelines
Wild mushrooms can be fascinating—and fatal. Follow these best practices to reduce risk while enjoying the outdoors. “Safety above all else” is our mantra. Never eat a wild mushroom based solely on an app ID.
1. Know the Legalities
- Acquire permits where required (state & national parks).
- Respect private property—get written permission.
- Avoid protected or endangered species.
2. Collect Specimens Safely
- Use a breathable basket—plastic bags accelerate spoilage and hide delicate ID features.
- Harvest the entire mushroom (cap, stem, base) for ID.
- Keep potentially toxic samples separate from edibles.
3. Photograph for Identification
- Capture multiple angles: cap close-up, underside gills/pores, stem, and habitat.
- Include a size reference (coin or ruler) and note surrounding trees or substrate (soil, wood, grass).
- Good lighting matters—avoid harsh shadows; use the phone’s macro mode for detail.
4. Perform a Spore Print
A spore print can confirm species when visuals are ambiguous. Place the cap gills-down on half white/half black paper, cover with a bowl, and leave 6–12 h. Colour and pattern are critical.
5. Consult Multiple Sources
- Cross-reference IdentifyThis.app results with field guides and local mycology groups.
- Use regional dichotomous keys for extra certainty.
- When in doubt, treat as poisonous.
6. Emergency Preparedness
If you suspect poisoning, call Poison Control immediately in your region (USA: 1-800-222-1222). Keep a fresh sample of the mushroom for analysis and seek medical attention without delay.
Reminder: This app is an educational tool. It is never 100 % certain. Expert confirmation is mandatory before ingestion.
Real Mushroom Identifications from Our Users
Chanterelle
Safe
Confidence: 96%
“Switched from the picture this mushroom identifier free trial—IdentifyThis.app nailed my chanterelle ID instantly!”
Submitted by @forager_jane
Death Cap
Deadly
Confidence: 94%
“The app warned me this might be a death cap. I double-checked with a mycologist—glad I did. 100 % free and potentially life-saving.”
Submitted by @urban_gardener
Morel
Safe
Confidence: 92%
“Wanted to know “what mushroom is this” on my hike—IdentifyThis.app worked offline and beat Google identify this mushroom every time.”
Submitted by @hiker_dave
False Morel
Toxic
Confidence: 90%
“Thought it was edible until the app flagged toxicity. Best free alternative to Picture This mushroom identifier—no subscription needed.”
Submitted by @myco_newbie
Seasonal Mushroom Identification
Regional Mushroom Identification
Different climates host different fungi. Explore region-specific tips, seasonality, and safety resources.
Pacific Northwest
Lush rainforests and temperate coastal zones create prime habitat for chanterelles, matsutake, and lobster mushrooms.
Eastern North America
From Appalachia to New England, find morels in spring and chicken-of-the-woods in late summer.
Europe
Birch forests host boletes, while Mediterranean climates yield prized porcini and Caesar’s mushroom.
Tropical & Subtropical
High humidity fosters bioluminescent fungi and vibrant cups—exercise caution with unfamiliar species.
Desert & Arid Regions
After rare rains, desert truffles and puffballs emerge—fragile ecosystems require gentle foraging practices.