The Fungus Among Us: What Fungi Are And Why They Are Important

What do puffballs, dead man's fingers, fairy rings, soft drinks, destroying angels, powdery mildews, ringworm, corn smut, Beano, stink horns, morels, truffles, dandruff, beer, shiitakes, chestnut trees, bread, stone- washed jeans, and Roquefort cheese all have in common? They all involve a fungus! Fungi are everywhere and affect us every day. We eat and enjoy some. Others will K*ll us if eaten. Some fungi cause diseases. Some cure diseases. Many plants cannot live without fungi. Some plants cannot live beacuse of them. Fungi have been recognized since antiquity, yet to most people they are little understood and somewhat mysterious. Neither plants nor animals, the fungi are considered to be a seperate kingdom of organisms. This presentation will explain what fungi are, survey their diversity, discuss their importance in ecosystems, and review how they impact our lives.

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Host or Publisher Blue Bell Branch Wissahickon Valley Public Library