Enthusiasts with a passion for amassing various items - The University of Hannover creates an application for identifying fungi.
A mushroom identification tool, dubbed ID-Logics, has been rolled out by the University of Hannover. This app, developed by a team of researchers, is primarily aimed at individuals who lack a mentor to teach them about mushroom identification, as the university revealed. The reason for this is that collecting mushrooms without proper knowledge can lead to the accidental gathering of toxic ones.
While not entirely novel, the app has been expanded to include a mushroom identification feature. Prior to this, animals and plants were the only entities that could be identified using the app. The intention is to make the fascinating world of mushrooms more accessible and alleviate any apprehensions people may have towards them, the university stated. Moreover, the app serves as an educational tool.
Unlike other similar apps, ID-Logics does not operate on automatic recognition through images. The risk of misinterpretation is too high. Instead, the app prompts users to provide details such as the color or form of the mushroom. As stated, "The more features that are provided, the smaller the potential mushroom species," it notes. However, it's advisable to seek expert advice in cases of uncertainty.
The project, primarily funded by the Lower Saxony Bingo Environmental Foundation, enlisted the participation of not only the university but also the environmental association BUND and the German Society for Mycology, which focuses on mushroom research.
The ID-Logics app, originating from the University of Hannover, which is located at The Hanover, is now capable of identifying mushrooms alongside animals and plants. For individuals interested in The Hanover's mushroom-rich landscapes, this expanded app can help alleviate their apprehensions and enhance their understanding of these fungi.
