Science
Education is central to the mission of the Mid-Hudson Mycological Association. For many of our members, learning about fungi naturally develops into a desire to contribute to the scientific side of mycology. While participation in formal documentation programs is never required, we actively support and encourage those who wish to move from observation to contribution. Scientific engagement grows from curiosity, and we provide the framework for members who want to take that step.
It is estimated that only 5% of the species in the fungal kingdom have been discovered, and we'd like to discover a few of the remaining 95%. Even in the Hudson Valley, species distributions remain incomplete, and new records continue to emerge. Careful documentation by informed observers can meaningfully expand what is known about local biodiversity. Citizen science platforms make that participation accessible and credible.
Many of our members use iNaturalist, a global citizen-science platform developed by the California Academy of Sciences and the National Geographic Society. Through iNaturalist, members photograph fungi in the field and upload images with date and location data. The platform offers identification suggestions and invites review from a global community of naturalists and scientists. When an observation reaches community agreement, it becomes “research grade” and is shared with international biodiversity databases used for research and conservation.
For those who choose to participate, a mushroom found on a walk becomes part of the scientific record. These observations help map species distributions, clarify fruiting seasons, detect range changes, and support ecological research. At the same time, members refine their identification skills through careful documentation and peer feedback.
Some members extend their involvement through the Fungal Diversity Survey (FUNDIS), a nonprofit organization dedicated to documenting North American fungal biodiversity through DNA sequencing. Because many fungi cannot be reliably identified by appearance alone, genetic analysis is often necessary to confirm species or reveal previously unrecognized ones. Through properly documented specimen collection and sequencing, participants contribute to permanent voucher collections and publicly available scientific data. In some cases, this work supports range extensions, taxonomic clarification, or even the discovery of species new to science.
Our organization does not require participation in these efforts. Instead, we foster an environment where education leads naturally to stewardship and contribution. For those inclined to document and share their findings, we provide guidance grounded in scientific integrity and responsible field practice. Through voluntary participation in programs such as iNaturalist and the Fungal Diversity Survey, our members help ensure that the fungi of the Hudson Valley are not only appreciated, but increasingly understood.