Fungi are an extraordinarily diverse group of organisms that come in many shapes and sizes. In the UK there are nearly 15,000 described species in the fungi kingdom: thousands of species of mushrooms as well as thousands of more obscure organisms such as powdery mildews, moulds, yeasts and entomopathogenic fungi. Common to all fungi is reproduction through the release of spores and the acquisition of nutrients through breaking down organic matter. The latter ability means fungi play a vital role as decomposers in ecosystems. Recording which fungi species are present on a site provides essential data regarding the distribution, seasonality and ecology of UK species, and also enables site managers to protect rare and valuable species, should any be found to be present.
On this Fungi Field Recorder Day, we invite you to join like-minded nature enthusiasts for a day of learning about, finding, identifying and recording fungi in an informal setting. Naturalists of all levels (from total beginner to expert) are encouraged to attend, share their experiences with peers and help one another improve their knowledge and build confidence in biological recording. Fungi specialist Mark Spencer will be leading the day and providing guidance throughout.
What will the day involve?
Practical experience of finding, identifying and recording fungi in the field.
Access to a knowledgeable fungi specialist with the opportunity to discuss identification questions.
A chance to meet like-minded nature enthusiasts.
What do I need to know in advance?
This event is aimed at adults only.
It’s free to attend and fungi recorders of all abilities are welcome, but booking is essential.
This is not a foraging event. Foraging is strictly prohibited on our events and anyone foraging will be asked to leave the event.
All identification will be completed in the field where possible, though please note that this event will involve some experienced individuals collecting fungal specimens for further inv