Advancing the Science of Mycology in Minnesota
The Funga Scientific Committee is the research-driven “science wing” of the Minnesota Mycological Society. We are a passionate group of mycophiles dedicated to collecting, identifying, documenting, and preserving the fungal diversity of our region and contributing to scientific knowledge along the way. Our work supports fungal collections, researchers, land managers, educators, and citizen scientists across Minnesota and beyond.
What the Funga Scientific Committee Does
Members of the Funga Scientific Committee focus on:
- Collecting and curating fungal specimens for scientific repositories such as the Bell Museum Fungarium
- Identifying fungi using macroscopic characteristics, microscopy, and molecular tools
- Submitting voucher specimens and DNA sequence data to projects such as MycoMap, BOLD, and global fungal collection databases
- Generating species lists used by the Minnesota DNR and other partners
- Conducting independent and group-based mycological studies
Our group also acts as the scientific backbone of MMS forays, serving as identifiers, identifier-in-training mentors, and field team leaders.
Monthly Meetings & Ongoing Activities
The Funga Scientific Committee meets once a month (typically the third Wednesday). Meetings may include:
- Identification skill development workshops
- Training in proper collection protocols and preservation methods
- Planning for seasonal field projects
- Presentations on topics such as fungal ecology, conservation, microscopy, and sequencing
Outside of meetings, committee members collect specimens for ongoing sequencing projects, contribute to our Bell Project submissions, and continue their own mycological research and practice.
Our Projects and Accomplishments
- 388 collections accessioned into the Bell Museum Fungarium since 2017 by 20 individuals
- ~60 fungal collections sequenced and uploaded to MycoMap in 2024
- Two completed FUNDiS grants, with resulting data archived in the BOLD repository
- Fungal observations published on Mushroom Observer and iNaturalist
- Annual development of the “Most Wanted Species” list to inspire MMS members and direct club collection efforts
Who Can Be Part of the Funga Scientific Committee?
The group is open to all MMS members, especially those with a working knowledge of macroscopic fungal identification and a desire to deepen their understanding of advanced mycological techniques. Many current members are MMS identifiers or identifier-in-training, though we also welcome anyone with a strong scientific interest in fungi and a willingness to learn.
Curious About Joining Us?
If your passion for fungi goes beyond foraging, and you feel a pull toward discovery, documentation, and scientific contribution, you may already be a future member of the Funga Scientific Committee. Keep your eye on MMS communications for meeting announcements… and don’t be shy about asking how you might get involved.