KK welcomes back mycologist and science educator Mandie Quark for a fascinating conversation about the importance of biodiversity and why protecting all forms of life. From photographing mysterious moths and fungi in Ecuador's rainforests to uncovering the alarming lack of funding for fungal conservation, Mandie shares how much of Earth's biodiversity remains undocumented and potentially threatened. We explore the interconnected relationships between fungi, insects, plants, and wildlife, the power of citizen science through platforms like iNaturalist, and how everyday nature enthusiasts can contribute to real scientific discoveries. Whether you're a mushroom lover, aspiring naturalist, or simply curious about the hidden world around you, this episode is a reminder that you can't protect what you don't know exists! MAKE SURE YOU VOTE FOR THE POLICIES YOU BELIEVE IN!
Resources Mentioned:
Mycena LLC – Mandie Quark — Expeditions, educational resources, and opportunities to explore biodiversity.
Ecuador Adventure Foray (February 14–28, 2027) — Learn about Mandie's upcoming biodiversity expedition.
iNaturalist — Document plants, fungi, insects, and other organisms while contributing to biodiversity research.
Fungal Diversity Survey (FUNDIS) — Participate in rare fungi challenges and support fungal conservation and DNA sequencing.
Fungal Diversity Survey
IUCN Red List — Explore species' conservation status and extinction risks.
Research: Limited and Biased Global Conservation Funding Means Most Threatened Species Remain Unsupported — The scientific paper discussed in the episode, highlighting how overlooked organisms receive disproportionately little conservation funding.
