In industrial lots once dominated by toxic soils, Danielle Stevenson’s innovative approach has transformed barren landscapes into vibrant meadows teeming with life. Utilizing fungi and native plants, the environmental toxicologist and founder of DIY Fungi is spearheading efforts to clean up brownfields—areas contaminated by heavy metals and other pollutants from industrial activities. Stevenson’s work involves planting native grasses and flowers alongside specific fungi that can break down toxic waste. This combination has not only revived the soil but also created habitats for birds and pollinators, contributing to a healthier ecosystem.

Stevenson’s method, known as bioremediation, leverages the natural capabilities of fungi to degrade pollutants, including petroleum products and heavy metals. Inspired by studies on mushrooms thriving near Chernobyl, she applied this knowledge to urban brownfields like the Los Angeles railyard. In just three months, her pilot project saw a 50 percent reduction in pollutants, achieving near-complete decontamination within a year. This method is a cost-effective and safer alternative to traditional excavation and landfill disposal, which pose risks of spreading contamination. By empowering local communities with these bioremediation techniques, Stevenson is not only cleaning up environments but also fostering community involvement in ecological restoration.

The recent discovery of a new plant species in Japan has astounded the scientific community, marking not only the first identification of a new plant in the country in nearly a century but also unveiling a unique behavior previously unseen in the botanical world. This newfound species, named Relictithismia mujina-no-shokudai, belongs to the fairy lantern group known as Thismiaceae. In a departure from conventional plant behavior, these white, glass-like plants eschew photosynthesis and, instead, draw sustenance from fungal mycelia in the soil—an unprecedented observation. Fairy lanterns, typically found in tropical, subtropical, and temperate regions, are known for their elusive nature, often concealed beneath fallen leaves and sporadically revealing delicate glasswork-like flowers above ground. The rarity and elusiveness of this newly discovered species, coupled with its distinctive feeding behavior, have sparked significant interest and concern among botanists.

Led by Kobe University botanist Dr. Kenji Suetsugu, the research team delved into the ecological intricacies of Relictithismia. Collaborating with local botanists who have unparalleled access to secluded regions across Japan, the scientists faced challenges in locating additional specimens. Eventually securing more samples a year later, the team conducted comprehensive morphological and genetic analyses, determining that Relictithismia is not only a new species but also different enough to warrant classification in a distinct genus. Named Mujina-no-shokudai, meaning “badger’s candleholder,” this plant represents a fascinating divergence in the evolutionary history of the Thismiaceae family, retaining characteristics lost in the more well-known Thismia genus. Dr. Suetsugu emphasizes the rarity of such discoveries in Japan, underscoring the necessity for continuous exploration and study of the world’s flora to unveil hidden species and address conservation concerns, particularly as these unique plants face heightened vulnerability to environmental changes.

In a ground-breaking study conducted by researchers in Australia, the genomes of over 100 strains of Psilocybe cubensis, commonly known as magic mushrooms, were meticulously analyzed. This psychoactive fungi has been utilized by humans for centuries, and the research aims to unlock the genetic secrets of these mushrooms, potentially paving the way for the development of what the team refers to as “designer shrooms.” These tailored mushrooms could possess unique health benefits, offering a novel avenue for exploration in the realm of psychedelic compounds.

Psilocybin, the key psychoactive component in magic mushrooms, has traditionally been associated with recreational use, albeit often illegal in many jurisdictions. However, recent attention has shifted towards its potential therapeutic applications. Studies suggest that when combined with psychotherapy, psilocybin may offer promising results for individuals grappling with depression, substance use disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder. The research conducted by the University of Queensland delves into the genetic diversity of Psilocybe cubensis varieties, comparing commercial cultivars with their wild counterparts. The findings, published in the journal Current Biology, indicate a significant reduction in genetic diversity in commercial cultivars, potentially resulting from intentional or unintentional factors influencing their evolution.

As the interest in psilocybin-assisted therapy grows, the genetic insights provided by this study shed light on the domestication and cultivation of magic mushrooms. The research not only unveils the genetic variations within Psilocybe cubensis but also suggests the possibility of reinvigorating diversity in cultivated varieties. The study marks a crucial step towards understanding the evolutionary journey of these fungi and the potential for creating customized strains that cater to specific health benefits, opening up new possibilities in the emerging field of psychedelic research.

In a groundbreaking discovery, scientists at the University of Sydney have identified fungi capable of rapidly consuming plastic, offering a potential solution to the global plastic pollution crisis. The research, detailed in a publication in NPJ Materials Degradation, unveils the remarkable ability of two common forms of backyard fungi to break down polypropylene, a widely used plastic in various applications. Unlike conventional plastic decomposition methods, which can take centuries, these fungi exhibit an impressive capacity to digest polypropylene within a mere 140 days, presenting a glimmer of hope in the battle against plastic waste. The significance of this finding lies not only in the speed at which these fungi can dismantle plastic but also in their accessibility. As common backyard fungi, they may be harnessed for waste management on a broader scale without the need for sophisticated and expensive processes.

The two species of fungi, Aspergillus terreus, and Engyodontium album, are in fact common forms of mold. The researchers hope that this breakthrough will pave the way for innovative and sustainable solutions to address the mounting challenge of plastic pollution around the world.
This amazing discovery encourages further exploration into the diverse capabilities of fungi and other microorganisms, offering hope for the development of eco-friendly technologies to counteract the environmental repercussions of plastic waste. As the scientific community continues to unveil nature’s secrets, the prospect of harnessing fungi to combat plastic pollution emerges as a promising and inspiring avenue for sustainable waste management.