WORKSHOP

The mysterious world of mushrooms

– and their importance for the ecosystem

October 9, 2025 — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. — Department of Botany and Diversity Research & Vienna Woods

excursion

German

This workshop of the Austrian Mycological Society offers you the opportunity to learn more about the diversity, ecological importance and identification of mushrooms.

Basics of mushroom picking
Important identifying features
Ecological importance of fungi
Behavior in case of poisoning
Joint excursion with identification of the mushrooms found

Fungi play an essential role in ecosystems. As decomposers, they decompose organic matter and make it available for the material cycle again. They are (almost) the only organisms capable of breaking down lignin – the component of wood. They fulfill an equally important function as mycorrhizal partners of plants, improving water and nutrient supply and providing protection against pests. They also play an important role as parasites in ecosystem resilience.

In addition to these ecological aspects, the event will provide a practical introduction to the most important characteristics for identifying mushrooms. Participants will learn how to identify mushrooms by sight, smell, taste, and touch—although the tasting test should only be performed by experienced mushroom experts. The various types of mushroom poisoning and the correct course of action in the event of poisoning will also be discussed.

The exact meeting point will be announced by email before the event.

Organizational matters

The workshop begins at 10:00 a.m. at the Botanical Institute with an engaging introductory lecture (lasting until approximately 12:00 p.m.). After a short lunch break, we'll head out into the Vienna Woods at approximately 1:30 p.m., where we'll identify and discuss the mushrooms we've collected during a group excursion. The exact meeting point for the practical part will be announced later (probably at the Steinhof fire station or the Neuwaldegg terminus). The event will end around 4:00 p.m.

Please bring: Weatherproof clothing and sturdy shoes, collection container (basket, cloth or paper bag), pocket knife

Tickets

Cost: 45,– Euro, members of the ÖMG 30,– Euro

The number of participants is limited, so we ask for a binding registration until October 1 2025 under romana.brandstaetter@chello.at (0650/3980348)

The amount must be transferred to the ÖMG account before the event begins. (Account details will be sent via email.)

Venue

Course instructor

Romana Brandstätter

Romana discovered her passion for mushrooms as a teenager. Since 2015, she has been intensively involved in mycology and is a member of the Austrian Mycological Society (ÖMG). Through ÖMG courses and self-study, she has acquired in-depth knowledge of mycology. Romana leads mushroom excursions, workshops, and courses and also brings experience in microscopy and emergency diagnostics for mushroom poisoning.