>>412974>>413016>>413025Mushrooms actually consist of a large underground system called mycelium. It is a white and cottony material that is mostly obscured under the ground but is the main portion of the "organism" while the mushrooms we eat are actually the "fruit" of the organism that are used for reproduction. Mycelium of some fungi species actually top the list of worlds largest organisms, spanning hundreds of miles (Michigan systems, Oregon systems).
On certain fungi like the ones I hunt (Morels, pic related) the systems need ideal conditions and are symbiotic with certain tree species. If you yank them out they take a large chunk of mycelium with them. This may lessen the chance of additional "flushes" from each spot as I can usually expect several flushes from one spot and also damage long term. Fungi also propagates itself by spreading is mycelium, so the more remove or damaged the less it will spread. I grew mushrooms indoors in large tubs and when we would case the mushrooms any damage or contamination of the mycelium would damage results.
