What is a MycoBlitz?
A MycoBlitz is a quick, intense survey of the funal species present.
The purpose of the MycoBlitz
The primary goal of the Point Reyes Mycoblitz is to produce vouchered records of all the macrofungi of the Pt. Reyes National Seashore. The motivation for this goal is derived from the observation that there are reasonably good records for animals and plants of the park, but not for fungi. Yet fungi are important components of the Point Reyes environment. They are the primary recyclers of wood and other lignified plant material; they are typically the most abundant and important group of plant pathogens; they form mutualistic interactions (i.e., mycorrhizae) with most plants; they are crucial components in soil food webs; they are an important food source for many small mammals; and they associate with insects in a huge diversity of symbiotic interactions. Macrofungi, such as the mushroom-forming basidiomycetes, are also a group that inspires much interest from the general public because of their diversity of forms, the edibility of some, and the extreme toxicity of others.
RSVP by September 3:
To participate, email FinolaDiaz@hotmail.com with “Pt Reyes MycoBlitz” in the subject line, along with the name(s), emails, and phone numbers of those that want to participate. A confirmation will be sent notifying you with details and your participation on September 8.
Details:
10am start time with approximately 2+ hours of collection time and then a review and wrap-up. There will be an orientation at the beginning that will cover use of Inaturalist, poison oak warning, where to collect, and how to collect.
What to bring:
A lunch
A water bottle
Clothing for cool to warm weather and comfortable shoes
Collecting equipment: wax bags, tackle boxes, knife, cell phone
You should have a Inaturalist account. The Inaturalist phone app may also be useful, but the account is necessary. Brief orientation on how to use will be provided at the start of the MycoBlitz.
