Introduction to Fungi on a Tree

Course overview

Enter the fascinating world of fungi and discover their essential role in
tree health, decay and woodland ecosystems.

Fungi are fundamental to the life of trees, yet they are often viewed
simply as signs of disease or decay. This one-day introductory course explores
the extraordinary relationships between fungi and trees and develops an
understanding of the different roles fungi play within woodland and urban
environments.

We will look at the biology of fungi, their relationships with living
trees and their involvement in decomposition and nutrient cycling. The course
introduces some of the common fungi encountered on trees and considers what
their presence can tell us about the tree and its environment.

Modules

You will explore:

• What fungi are and how they function
• The relationship between fungi and trees
• Mycorrhizal fungi and root associations
• Saprotrophic fungi and decomposition
• Wood decay and fungal activity
• Common fungi found on trees
• Fruiting bodies and fungal identification