Mycelium
Laboratory
We use cutting edge technology to provide affordable services to the community,
environment and agricultural sectors.
Molecular Biology
Environmental DNA, genetic sequencing and diagnostics.
Mycology
Microbiology, mushroom cultivation and mycomaterials.
Biodiversity
Ecological assessments and species monitoring.
Engagement
Education, specialised training and citizen-science.
Biosecurity
We provide cost-effective solutions for diagnostics and monitoring of invasive and pathogenic species. Using environmental DNA technologies such as qPCR or LAMP we can detect individual species in environmental samples. This includes identifying vectors of transmission such as equipment and clothing. We have assays for common problem species including Phytophthora, and can develop custom assays for other species. We provide training in biosecurity management and can also assist in developing low cost in-house monitoring programs using eDNA for land managers.
Environmental DNA
Traditional environmental monitoring techniques are limited when it comes to studying rare or cryptic organisms. Using next generation sequencing we can provide comprehensive biodiversity assessments using environmental DNA. We have experience developing eDNA studies, laboratory work and data analysis. We can also develop assays to monitor endangered species or other species of interest environmental samples such as soil, water, scats, etc. We specialise in involving the community in our projects and love to work with grass roots environmental organisations.
Mycology and fungal ecology
We do fungal biodiversity assessments and ecological studies including visual surveys and/or environmental DNA. Our expertise includes community ecology and relationships between fungi, animals, plants and microorganisms. Our taxonomy services include taking herbarium specimens and cultures from wild fungi, as well as data analysis using microscopy, genetic sequencing and taxonomy. We also provide training and can produce custom local species lists and identification booklets.
Mushroom cultivation and fungal technology
With expertise gained cultivating gourmet mushrooms in Australia and overseas, we can advise on best practice and environmental sustainability in all stages of the production process. This includes culturing, fruiting and breeding strains. We have experience with breeding, processing and quality control of medicinal fungi, as well as developing and testing mycomaterials. We can provide training courses as well as professional consultations.
Education
With our partner organisation MYCOmmunity Applied Mycology, we have extensive experience in education, science communication, engagement and citizen science. We can provide training tailored to the needs of your organisation on topics such as biosecurity, laboratory techniques and fungal ecology. We also work with schools, libraries, community organisations and local government to deliver science education accessible to diverse audiences.
Ema Corro is a mycologist with over a decade’s experience cultivating fungi for food, medicine and mycomaterials. Her main area of research is in ecology and how to integrate fungi into land management practices. Her experience includes targetted species detection using eDNA, metabarcoding and genetic sequencing. Ema has extensive experience in science communication and engagement, including working with schools, libraries, city councils and community groups. She has contributed to the Fungi for Land project and is a director of community science organisations BioQuisitive and MYCOmmunity Applied Mycology.
Melvin Xu is an environmental manager with experience in bushland regeneration and fire management. He has researched the lifecycle and ecology of native Australian Opiocordyceps and has extensive experience in orchid cultivation with their mycorrhizal fungal partners. As an avid Naturalist/Citizen scientist, he is an active member of the Australian Native Orchid Society’s Seed group where he helps propagate orchids and their mycorrhizal partners for conservation revegetation. Running the Fungi group at Field Naturalist Club of Victoria, he coordinates field trips to survey fungi throughout Victoria.
Emily McIntyre is PhD Candidate at the University of Melbourne, where she is studying the diversity and ecology of truffle-like fungi and their mutualistic relationship with the endangered Long-Footed Potoroo. In addition to her doctoral studies, Emily is actively involved in research at MYCOmmunity Applied Mycology, where she is working with other researchers to investigate the impact of storm damage on soil fungal communities. Her expertise includes eDNA metabarcoding, multivariate data analysis, and ecological modelling. She is particularly passionate about exploring the interactions between fungi, plants, animals, and abiotic factors to gain deeper insights into ecosystem functioning.
Natasha Vorogushin‘s interest in foraging, sustainable living and permaculture has deeply influenced her career path, spawning Tash Can Cook as a culinary service provider, through her love of foraging for edible mushrooms and cooking with fresh seasonal, locally sourced produce. Her infatuation with mushrooms has lead her to become a skilled identifier of wild Victorian mushrooms and has also expanded her knowledge of home mushroom cultivation skills for culinary uses. Combined with a passion to teach, Natasha also guides seasonal edible foraging tours, instructs cooking classes with a wide range of cuisines, and is also a personal chef and caterer.
