Frequently Asked Questions About Mushroom Spores (UK)

This page answers common questions about mushroom spores, their legal status in the UK, and their use for microscopy and research. Gorilla Spores provides spores strictly for lawful educational and scientific purposes. This FAQ is maintained by the Gorilla Spores Research Team and reviewed regularly to reflect current UK law and best practices.

Legal & Compliance

Yes. Mushroom spores are legal to buy, sell, and possess in the UK because they do not contain psilocybin. However, the cultivation of Psilocybe cubensis and other psilocybin-containing mushrooms is illegal under UK law.

Gorilla Spores sells spores strictly for lawful research, microscopy, and educational use. Full details are outlined in our Legal Use Policy.

Can mushroom spores be used for cultivation?

No. Cultivating Psilocybe cubensis or any psilocybin-producing mushroom is illegal in the UK. Gorilla Spores does not support or condone cultivation, and all products are sold solely for microscopy and research purposes.

Laws vary by country and region. While spores are legal in the UK, they may be restricted or illegal elsewhere. It is the customer’s responsibility to ensure compliance with local laws before ordering.

Microscopy & Research

What are mushroom spores?

Mushroom spores are microscopic reproductive cells produced by fungi. They are similar in function to plant seeds but differ biologically and structurally. Spores are commonly studied under microscopes for taxonomy, morphology, and research purposes.

Are mushroom spores alive?

Spores are considered biologically dormant. They are capable of germination under specific conditions, but they do not exhibit active metabolism in their dormant state.

Do I need a microscope to study spores?

Yes. Mushroom spores are microscopic and cannot be examined in detail without a microscope. Most collectors and researchers use magnifications between 400× and 1000× to observe spore morphology clearly.

Are Gorilla Spores suitable for beginners?

Yes. Many strains we offer, such as Golden Teacher and B+, are considered beginner-friendly for microscopy due to their consistent spore morphology and ease of identification.

Storage & Handling

How long do spore syringes last?

When stored correctly in a refrigerator at 2–8°C, spore syringes typically remain viable for 6–12 months or longer.

How long do spore prints last?

Spore prints can last several years when stored in a cool, dry, dark environment inside a sealed container.

How should mushroom spores be stored?

  • Spore syringes: Refrigerated (2–8°C), away from light
  • Spore prints: Cool, dry, dark location

Avoid heat, direct sunlight, and humidity to preserve quality.

Ordering & Discretion

Is your packaging discreet?

Yes. All Gorilla Spores orders are shipped in plain, unbranded packaging to protect customer privacy.

Do you ship within the UK?

Yes. Gorilla Spores is a UK-based supplier, offering fast domestic dispatch and customer support. Please look at our shipping info page for extended guidance.


Are your spores authentic?

Absolutely. All spores sold by Gorilla Spores are sourced from verified genetics, prepared in sterile conditions, and checked for quality before dispatch.


Responsibility & Use

What are Gorilla Spores products intended for?

Our spores are intended exclusively for:

  • Microscopy
  • Taxonomy
  • Educational study
  • Lawful research

Any other use is strictly prohibited.


Where can I learn more about responsible use?

You can read our:

Gorilla Spores provides high-quality mushroom spores for lawful microscopy and educational research only. Customers are responsible for understanding and complying with local laws.