Fungi reproduce via spores. To produce them, fungi must produce specialized fruit bodies. To us, they are the most visible parts of fungi, and the fruit bodies of many fungi are used as food. Most of the fungi you encounter in the forest will have a similar fruit body structure.

The top part of the fruit body consists of a cuticled cap. The underside of the cap can contain either gills, tubes or spikes, depending on the species. The cap is connected to the stem of the fruit body. 

In some species, such as the poisonous fly amanita, the top part of the stem can contain a ring. Fly amanita mushrooms also contain a cup, which is located at the bottom of the stem.