Recent research has uncovered the critical mechanism involved in the symbiotic relationship between fungi and trees. As it turns out, the fungus is able to take control of its tree host by injecting a small protein that neutralizes the tree’s immune defenses thereby allowing the fungus to colonize the plant. This is a critical advance in our understanding…
Behold the Blob? Have you seen or stepped in some seemingly disgusting things in your yard lately and have been too grossed out by the possibilities to figure out what it could have been? Well, rest easy, slime molds; unique, non-pathogenic fungi common to turfgrass, have been reported recently sighted on lawns in the region. Slime molds…
Species Summary A “BioBlitz” is a 24 hour event in which volunteer teams comprised of teachers, scientists, naturalists, students, families and community members come together to find and identify as many plants, animals, fungi, microbes and other organisms as possible within a given space. National Geographic is aiding in conducting a BioBlitz in a different…
Fun Fungus Facts The kingdom Fungi comprises some of the most important organisms, environmentally and ecologically. They are responsible for decomposition of dead organic material and most vascular plants rely on symbiotic relationships with fungi for their survival and success. And while many fungal species cause disease in both plants and animals, others are used…
