Forest Fungi Photo Guide

The Forest Fungi Photo Guide is a scientifically informed, New Zealand–focused online reference documenting hundreds of native and introduced fungal species. Created and maintained by the site author, a recognised expert in New Zealand myxomycetes at Landcare Research, the guide combines extensive field photography with verified taxonomic information. A defining strength of the guide is its foundation in voucher-backed specimens. Many photographed fungi are represented by physical collections housed in PDD, the National Fungal Herbarium of New Zealand, where they can be re-examined, re-identified, or DNA sequenced as taxonomy evolves.

Numerous specimens have already undergone expert review or molecular analysis by Landcares mycologists, providing a high level of scientific reliability. The guide is designed to be accessible to beginners while remaining valuable to researchers and experienced identifiers. Species pages typically include photographs taken in natural habitats, descriptive notes, and links to related taxa, making the site a practical tool for field identification and comparative study. Although not a formal peer-reviewed publication, the Forest Fungi Photo Guide is one of the most scientifically grounded online fungi resources in New Zealand, bridging the gap between professional mycology and public education. Its combination of expert-informed identifications, herbarium-linked specimens, and ongoing updates makes it a trusted reference for trampers, naturalists, educators, and mycologists alike.

I originally created this photo guide way back in 2003 for my own personal use. It wasn't long, however, before I was persuaded to have this printed and made available for others. Unfortunately, time has caught up with this and every other fungi book, with DNA sequencing increasingly used to identify fungi. Names are changing at such an alarming rate that it's become impossible to keep a printed guide up-to-date.

Version: 7.10
Now available is a much expanded and optimised photo guide for use on any smart device or computer in the form of six small PDF books. Each species is contained on a single page with one to five images, depending on availability. This photo guide has also been reviewed by our local mycologist at Landcare Research to ensure the accuracy of the identifications.

Obtaining a copy:
I am selling this photo guide for $40 to cover some of my costs. Book One can be downloaded for free to allow you to review it and see if it meets your needs.

To obtain the other five books, deposit $40 in my bank account, then email me at clive@hiddenforest.co.nz with the name used in the bank transfer. Once I see the money in my account, I will send you a link to download the remaining five books.

ASB Account:
C C Shirley
12-3060-0188766-00