Spore FAQ

This page provides a detailed reference covering mushroom spores, their scientific purpose, handling, storage, legality, and terminology. It is intended as an educational resource for individuals interested in mycology, taxonomy, and microscopy.

All spores supplied by Mycotown are provided strictly for microscopy, taxonomy, and educational research purposes.

What are mushroom spores?

ushroom spores are microscopic reproductive cells produced by fungi. They serve a similar biological function to seeds in plants, allowing fungi to reproduce and spread.

In mycology, spores are examined to study:

• Shape and size
• Wall thickness and surface texture
• Pigmentation
• Species and strain identification
• Genetic lineage and variation

Spores are typically analysed using light microscopy at varying magnifications.

What are mushroom spores used for?

In a research and educational context, mushroom spores are used for:

• Microscopic examination
• Taxonomic classification
• Comparing species and strain characteristics
• Academic and personal study of fungal biology

Mycotown does not sell spores for cultivation, germination, or growing purposes.

What is the difference between mushroom spores and mycelium?

Spores are reproductive cells, while mycelium is the vegetative network of fungal cells that develops after germination.

What forms do mushroom spores come in?

Mushroom spores are commonly supplied in several formats for research use, including:

• Spore syringes – spores suspended in sterile solution
• Spore prints – spores deposited on a sterile surface
• Spore swabs – spores collected using sterile swabs

Each format is suitable for microscopic examination when handled appropriately.

What is a spore syringe?

A spore syringe contains mushroom spores suspended in a sterile liquid solution. This format allows for even distribution of spores on microscope slides and is commonly used for research observation.

Are mushroom spores alive?

Spores are biologically active reproductive cells. However, their ability to germinate (viability) depends on factors such as age, handling, and storage conditions.

What does “research-grade spores” mean?

Research-grade spores are prepared and packaged with microscopy and educational study in mind. This typically includes:

• Sterile preparation techniques
• Clear species and strain labelling
• Visual verification prior to packaging

Research-grade does not imply suitability for cultivation.

Are Mycotown spores sterile?

Spore syringes, prints, and swabs are prepared using sterile laboratory techniques to reduce contamination risk. However, spores are a natural biological material and absolute sterility cannot be guaranteed.

Can mushroom spores be contaminated?

Yes. Spores can naturally carry microscopic contaminants due to their biological origin. Sterile handling and packaging significantly reduce, but do not eliminate, this risk.

How should mushroom spores be stored?

For research integrity, mushroom spores should be stored:

• In a cool environment
• Away from direct sunlight
• In sealed, sterile packaging
• With minimal temperature fluctuations

Proper storage helps preserve spore structure and longevity.

How long do mushroom spores last?

When stored correctly, spores can remain intact for extended periods. However, longevity varies depending on storage conditions, format, and handling.

Mycotown does not guarantee long-term viability.

What is the difference between a mushroom species and a strain?

Species

A species is a biological classification defined by shared genetic and morphological characteristics.

Examples include:

• Psilocybe cubensis
• Psilocybe cyanescens
• Psilocybe semilanceata

Strain

A strain is a genetic variant or lineage within a species. Strains may display subtle differences in appearance, growth patterns, or microscopic traits.

Do different strains produce different spores?

Spores within the same species share core identifying features. However, slight variations in size, shape, or pigmentation may be observed between strains.

Why are some species described by strains and others are not?

Some species, such as Psilocybe cubensis, have been extensively studied and selectively isolated, resulting in many documented strains. Other species are primarily studied at the species level due to limited genetic variation or documentation.

Are mushroom spores legal?

Spore legality depends on regional laws and regulations. In many locations, spores are legal to possess for microscopy and research, while cultivation may be restricted.

Customers are responsible for understanding and complying with their local laws before purchasing.

Do you provide cultivation or growing advice?

No.

Mycotown does not provide:

• Cultivation instructions
• Growing guides
• Germination advice
• Substrate or fruiting information

All educational content is limited to spores, taxonomy, and research.

Can mushroom spores be shipped internationally?

International shipping availability depends on destination import laws and regulations. Customers should ensure spores are permitted in their country before placing an order.

Are mushroom spores safe to handle?

Mushroom spores are generally safe to handle when standard laboratory hygiene practices are followed, including:

Working in clean environments

Washing hands after handling

Avoiding inhalation of airborne spores

Where can I learn more about mushroom spores?

Additional educational resources are available in the Mycotown learning hub, including guides on:

• Mushroom strain guides
• What mushroom spores are
• How spores are stored
• Differences between species and strains