On Thursday, 9th March we were very privileged to
be given this talk by Paul Nichol, a distinguished national
mycologist who is a trustee of the Association of British Fungi
Groups.
Paul gently took us
through key biological facts about fungi in a sequential manner.
Fungi are now classified as a distinct Kingdom within the Domain of
Eukaryotes: which are any organisms whose cells contain a nucleus and
other organelles enclosed within membranes.
Fungi can be symbiotic, parasitic and saprophytic (living off dead / decaying matter).
Of some
3,000 species of fungi in the UK, only about 12-15 are lethal. It is
probably for this reason that in the UK we do not regularly forage
for mushrooms in the fruiting months, unlike our European neighbours.
Using
reference guides when foraging are useful. But for improved safety in
identification of species, a field expedition is best undertaken with
an expert.
Paul holds
courses regularly in Cumbria at Highham Hall
http://highamhall.com/organiser/paul-nichol/
You can also contact Paul by e mail - paulnichol20@gmail.com
Paul's
book, now in it's 3rd Edition is available via book stores
/Amazon
