Are there any oyster mushroom look-alikes?
Pleurotus ostreatus, is a common edible known for its oyster-shaped cap.
One of the first things you should look for when trying to identify this mushroom is the presence of decurrent gills.
Please remember to never eat any mushroom if you're not absolutely sure what it is.
The Internet is a great resource, but if you're a beginner you should show your find to a real live expert to be safe.
Nothing beats an in-person identification!
Identification features of Pleurotus ostreatus:-
- Oyster or fan-shaped, usually 2-10 inches across (5-25 cm).
- Often grow in a shelf-like formation with overlapping clusters.
- Smooth, with no warts or scales.
- Usually white to light brown with a firm, white flesh.
- The gills are white and are attached to and running down the cap and stem (decurrent).
