Cardiff Uni researchers develop plan to save rare fungi
Researchers are developing conservation action plans needed to save some of the UK’s endangered fungi species
Researchers are developing conservation action plans needed to save some of the UK’s endangered fungi species.
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has awarded Cardiff University researchers a Species Recovery Programme grant of over £721,000, which will support the development of a comprehensive conservation plan for 12 fungi species.
The project will aim to bring together researchers, conservation organisations and land managers to identify the actions needed to protect the species and improve their long-term prospects for survival.
Researchers say 'fungi have tended to be overlooked in conservation priorities – despite their vital role in maintaining healthy ecosystems. Fungi underpin most of the processes in the natural world'.
Dr Sarah Christofides, Cardiff University School of Biosciences, said: "But because they are difficult to see and hard to identify, they haven't received the attention that they deserve. Our plans will help positive action to be taken to ensure their survival and that they can continue the important work that they do."
The project will focus on endangered fungi species:
- Hericium erinaceus (lion’s mane fungus)
- Desarmillaria ectypa (marsh honey fungus)
- Sarcodontia crocea (orchard tooth crust)
- Podoscypha multizonata (zoned rosette)
- Hypocreopsis rhododendri (hazel gloves)
The work will examine the specific threats facing each species, identify gaps in knowledge, and develop practical recommendations for habitat management, monitoring and conservation action.
Professor Lynne Boddy, decomposition ecologist at Cardiff University School of Biosciences, said: “This project will provide a blueprint for future fungal conservation work while increasing awareness of the essential but often unseen role fungi play in the natural world.”#