Mark* and I arrived at the IFFS on Wednesday to conduct microscopy workshops and found an impressive and varied collection of specimens awaiting us. With three good microscopes and a number of experienced Scandinavian and American mycologists we had two very interesting afternoon sessions where at times we were bouncing new ideas off each other. International experience across different fungi groups can help us make more sense of the unique species we have here. Mark had everyone fascinated with his technique of photographing spores directly down the microscope eyepiece using his digital camera, a technique that was quickly adopted by those with digital cameras. We examined different groups of fungi and were able to see a very interesting variety of spores and the effects of different stains and their diagnostic uses. We had a veritable sponge for knowledge in young local Jarred Pedro who displayed a keen interest and aptitude for microscopy.

Photo by Dorothy Smullen, (USA)
"Western Australian mycologists Dr. Mark Brundrett and  Roz Hart conducted the workshop in Advanced Fungi ID."

Photo by Dorothy Smullen, (USA)
"Zelleromyces daucinus" (a truffle-like fungus) photographed through a dissecting microscope

Roz Hart, Fungal Studies Group, Perth, Western Australia

*Dr.  Mark Brundrett, University of Western Australia; Kings Park & Botanic Gardens, Perth

WEB site brought to you by