Fungal biology in the real world
The aims of this project are to provide an introduction to fungal diversity including taxonomy, identification techniques and microscopy.  The main activities in this project will include a series of forays to gather specimens of fungi from different habitats e.g. woodland, roadsides and parks.  Digital cameras will be used to capture photographs of fungi in their natural habitat.  Detailed identification of specimens will be carried out during the afternoons, including microscopic examination of spores, gills and fruiting structures.  Particular attention will be given to the different types of habitats e.g. coniferous woodland compared to deciduous/mixed woods and the substrates on which fungi are growing e.g. wood, grassland, dung and plants.  The results from the project will be compared with results obtained in previous years projects, taking into account the weather conditions and different locations explored.   At the end of the project, students will have the opportunity to take home a CD-ROM containing images gathered on the field course. 

Project writeup
A written report must be submitted by Plant Science Honours students at the beginning of fourth year. The report should be in the form of a research paper containing an Introduction, Methods, Results and Discussion. Particular attention should be given to describing the different groups of fungi (perhaps include detailed profiles on particular species) and relating them to the habitats in which they were discovered and the weather conditions.   Presentation should be of a high standard and students should include photographs, tables and maps where appropriate. 
 

For further help / advice please contact Patrick Hickey -  p.hickey@ed.ac.uk