Tag Archives: fungi

Are we lichen what we see? 🌿

Ever wondered what that scaly stuff is growing on gravestones on churchyards?  Maybe you have noticed it and been amazed at the array of colours and textures but never could quite identify them. Sound familiar? Lichens are remarkable in being very difficult to identify.  They often grow in the most unremarkable and obscure places,  including in churchyards, on trees and even on the side of stone buildings.  Did you know that they are also a good indicator of clean air – as many hate pollution! This week, Rebecca Yahr from the Plant Power team, attempts to uncover fact from fiction. In the process, she explains how the Darwin project is helping scientists discover more about lichens and educate us all about their importance. Read more here    

Posted on June 23, 2022 by modchryssa in DToL, Update. Tagged , , , . Leave a comment

All Things Fungal!

Did you know that fungi are more closely related to animals than plants? That they make countless contributions to medical, industrial, agricultural and sustainable applications? That they also recycle nutrients, help plants absorb water and help tackle accelerated climate change? Fungi are some of the least known and mysterious organisms on Earth and in this article, Richard Wright, Elena Arrigoni and Ester Gaya uncover more of the untold secrets about them.  Working with the Plant and Fungal Explorers team, these three scientists are helping to record and describe more and more of these incredible species – over 3.5 million still need to be recorded though, so lets wish them good luck! Read more about the secret lives of fungi here

Posted on June 16, 2022 by modchryssa in DToL, Update. Tagged , , , , , . Leave a comment

Ask the scientists:

How to use the activity

Watch the video to see what you can do on the Darwin Tree of Life site.