Mushrooms of the Chicago Region Presented by Patrick Leacock
The Priory, Room 259, Dominican University, 7200 W. Division, River Forest, IL, 31245 Map
Program Description:
Mushrooms belong to the Kingdom Fungi and are neither plant nor animal. These odd organisms are important members of the habitats around Chicago, and Cook County has over 800 species. More than half of these decompose wood, leaf litter, or live in the soil. Many are beneficial symbionts of tree roots, while some others are parasitic. There are a variety of edible types, such as morels and chanterelles, but also some deadly poisonous mushrooms to be avoided. The identification of mushrooms requires repeated practice and is best learned from knowledgeable mushroom hunters, though many useful books and websites are available. Similar to bird-watching and learning plants, awareness of mushrooms provides an added layer of nature appreciation.
Dr. Leacock has been studying the fungi of the Chicago Region for seventeen years. Volunteers and interns assist him with collections and research at the Field Museum of Natural History. Patrick works closely with the Illinois Mycological Association via programs, forays and documenting mushrooms, as well as the North American Mycological Association. The club started a citizen science research program this year. He is assembling the rich Chicago mycoflora of over 1200 species. Patrick's website is www.mycoguide.com and the first IMA mushroom videos can be seen there.