PPEM 120The Fungal Jungle: A Mycological Safari From Truffles to Slime Molds

3 credits · Plant Pathology and Environmental Microbiology · Penn State

This course is an introduction to the world of fungi and their impact on humans and the environment around us. Fungi represent one of five or one of sixteen Kingdoms of biological organisms depending on the system used. Either way the Fungi are an integral and essential component of the biological world worthy of study by scientists and non-scientists alike. However, despite their importance to the ecosystem and to human affairs Fungi are among the least studied groups of biological organisms. This is unfortunate since Fungi are often quite beautiful and impact everyone's life. The goal of the proposed course is to provide a framework and context for students to become familiar with the Fungi and their importance to other life forms including humans. For example, food production is both positively and negatively impacted by Fungi in quite profound ways from serving a source of highly sought-after products such as truffles to plant pathogens such as wheat rust destroying crops. This course explores questions such as: What are Fungi? Why are they important? How do they work in the ecosystem? How have humans harnessed the unique capabilities of Fungi? How are Fungi portrayed in the media, and are these accounts accurate? Students will also practice using their fungal knowledge to evaluate the potential efficacy of consumer products aimed at control of Fungi. Some course concepts will be explored through hands on activities and visits to relevant campus locations. At course conclusion students will have a deeper understanding of the fascinating Kingdom Fungi, and a greater appreciation for their importance, diversity, and beauty.