Mycologist-led workshop explores fungi in Tasmania’s Tarkine rainforest
8 reported
A three-day fungi workshop in Tasmania's Takayna/Tarkine rainforest, led by mycologist Dr Alison Pouliot, brought together toxicologists, botanists and ecologists to study the region's fungal diversity. The workshop, based at Corinna Wilderness Village, included foraging trips along the Pieman River and activities such as taking sporeprints and examining how language affects perceptions of fungi. Participants observed numerous species including blue pixie's parasols, ruby bonnets, earth tongues, giant bracket fungi and echidna fungi. Pouliot emphasized that fungi are "ecosystem engineers" that created the foundation for forests, noting that an estimated 2-3 million fungal species exist but only just over 205,000 have been identified. The article notes that Guardian Australia travelled as a guest of Tourism Tasmania and Corinna Wilderness Village.
What’s reported
The workshop was led by mycologist Dr Alison Pouliot in the Takayna/Tarkine rainforest of north-west Tasmania.
Participants included toxicologists, botanists and ecologists.
Activities included foraging trips, taking sporeprints, and discussing how language affects views of fungi.
Fungi were given their own kingdom about 50 years ago after being considered plants.
Researchers estimate 2-3 million fungal species exist, with just over 205,000 identified.
Fungal mycelium networks total an estimated 100 quadrillion kilometres.
A fungal specimen in Oregon, US, covers more than 9 sq km and weighs as much as 30,000 tonnes.
Guardian Australia travelled as a guest of Tourism Tasmania and Corinna Wilderness Village.
Key figures
Dr Alison Pouliot, mycologist and workshop leader
Liz Davis, workshop attender from Orange, New South Wales
Sources: The Guardian
