Field Notes Journal
Field Notes Journal a personal natural history of place

II.5 Examination of Fungal Spores

Aim

To observe the structure and distribution of fungal spores.

Specimen & Apparatus

  • Fungal growth (e.g. bread mould or penicillium on fruit)
  • Needle or mounted pin
  • Slide and coverslip
  • Water
  • Compound microscope

Method

  1. Using a needle, collect a very small portion of the fungal material.
  2. Transfer to a slide and add a drop of water.
  3. Gently tease the material to separate structures.
  4. Apply a coverslip carefully.
  5. Examine under low power, then increase magnification.

Observations to Make

  • Presence and arrangement of spores.
  • Shape and size of individual spores.
  • Relationship between spores and supporting structures.
  • Any variation within the sample.