| Principal Investigator: | Davies, Linda L (2) |
| Licence Number: | 16394 |
| Organization: | Imperial College London |
| Licensed Year(s): |
2018
2017
|
| Issued: | Aug 24, 2018 |
| Project Team: | Professor Henry Beker, Dr Linda Davies, Dr Sharmin Gamiet |
Objective(s): To study the diversity and distribution of the genus Hebeloma and other fungi from the Hymenogastraceae family.
Project Description: The goals of this project are to study the diversity and distribution of the genus Hebeloma and other fungi from the Hymenogastraceae family; to explore the ecology of this ectomycorrhizal family which are important for forest health and a range of local ecosystem services; and, to assemble a more complete phylogeny of the family that will in turn further understanding of the evolution and development of characters within this family. The research team will conduct a survey local areas to look for basidiomes (toadstools). If collections are found (very few last year due to hot weather) they are photographed in situ, a few specimens are collected, examined and measured before being dried and transported to Europe. DNA is extracted and phylogenetic trees produced to support microscopic study and lead to identification of species. Host trees and other habitat data is also collected to aid ecological knowledge. The research team would are happy to deliver whatever engagement plans the community would like. Last year the Principal Investigator (PI) gave a presentation to local community members and scientists on fungi and Hebeloma. The PI also led a foray around Frame Lake. The team are currently working on a community plan to include schools in Behchoko. The team would welcome the opportunity to foray for fungi with local people. A community report will be prepared with photographs using plain english to share the findings with local communities. The research team are always pleased to communicate the findings at any stage. More importantly the team are happy to work with local people by email to help them to develop new skills and local knowledge of fungi by studying specimens collected after the visit. Fungi are an important part of the environment in which communities live. The fieldwork for this study will be conducted from September 7, 2018 to September 11, 2018.
