UK Fungus Day

General information

What is UK Fungus Day?

UK Fungus Day is the outreach arm of the British Mycological Society (BMS), aiming to raise public awareness of fungi and fungal science. We coordinate events throughout the year, but hold a special nationwide celebratory weekend in October where academics, field mycologists, enthusiasts and members of the public come together to celebrate the wonderful world of fungi!

Check out our events page to find an event near you! http://www.ukfungusday.co.uk/event/

Why are we doing it?

The fungal kingdom is not only full of fascinating organisms, but is also vital for or survival on this planet. Without the recycling activities of fungi, the world’s ecosystems would soon run out of nutrients. Plants without their fungal mycorrhizal partners to deliver water and nutrients would not be able to grow, and food would quickly become depleted. In short, life on Earth would not exist without fungi!

However, some fungi are also emerging as pathogens across diverse taxa including humans, frogs, bats, soft coral and bees, and in certain cases are causing widespread population decline. They can cause invasive infections in immunocompromised patients, contributing to high mortality rates in individuals suffering from AIDS and cancer, and can cause irritating superficial infections of our skin and mucous membranes. Some fungi can even poison us.

Our aim is to engage, enthuse and educate people about the fungal kingdom and some of the amazing things fungi do for us!