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Stephen Axford: How fungi changed my view of the world

Planet Fungi・2 minutes read

Stephen Axford photographs a diverse range of fungi globally, from Australia to Asia, highlighting their beauty and importance in ecosystems. Through his photography, Axford educates people about mushrooms, including poisonous ones like the death cap, and collaborates internationally on forest conservation efforts.

Insights

  • Stephen Axford's journey into fungi photography began as a coping mechanism after facing mortality, showcasing how nature can offer solace and healing during challenging times.
  • Through his photography and collaborations, Axford not only captures the beauty and diversity of fungi worldwide but also contributes significantly to scientific discoveries, conservation efforts, and educating people about the importance of fungi in forest ecosystems.

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  • What does Stephen Axford photograph?

    Fungi

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Summary

00:00

Stephen Axford: Capturing the World of Fungi

  • Stephen Axford photographs fungi in an endangered lowland subtropical rainforest in New South Wales, Australia.
  • He began photographing mushrooms after facing mortality, finding solace in nature.
  • Axford discovered various mushrooms, including the Hygrocybe graminicolor in Tasmania.
  • He found the Russula mushrooms appealing for their colors and edibility.
  • Axford's perception of mushrooms expanded beyond traditional forms to include diverse species like the orange Remaria fungus.
  • He explored shelf fungi like Trametes versicolor and cup fungi like Cordyceps from Dosa.
  • Axford encountered the edible coral tooth fungus in Yunnan, China, showcasing the global diversity of fungi.
  • Fungi photography led Axford to delve into the science of fungi, discovering their separate kingdom of life.
  • He documented saprobic fungi and ectomycorrhizal fungi, highlighting their roles in forest ecosystems.
  • Axford's collaborations with mycologists led to the discovery of new mushroom species, like the striking blue mushroom in Australia.

21:11

Fungi in Asia and Africa: Diversity and Conservation

  • Many species of fungus are found in tropical Asia and Africa, with one species producing mushrooms up to a meter across.
  • Lecaria amethystina, a purple mushroom growing with pine trees in Yunnan, is valued as a delicious edible.
  • Amanita Floyd, known as the death cap, is the most poisonous mushroom globally, causing liver destruction and death.
  • Photography plays a crucial role in educating people about mushrooms, including poisonous ones, aiding conservation efforts.
  • International collaborations in India, Nepal, Myanmar, and India focus on forest conservation and educating locals about edible fungi.
  • Documenting fungi in remote areas, like the Eastern Himalayas, has been a significant part of fungi education and conservation efforts.
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