Mycology (from the Greek mykes, meaning "fungus") is the study of fungi. The study of fungi involves their genetic and biochemical properties and their taxonomy.

Fungi are a group of unique organisms that sit uneasily between microbiology and botany. They are neither filamentous bacteria nor are they akin to green plants. They have cells of similar kind and produce complex structures but belong to their own Kingdom "Fungi", now know as "the Fifth Kingdom".

Fungi have a wide range of use for humans as a source for medicines (such as penicillin) and food (beer, wine, cheese), as well as dangers from poisoning, or even infection.

Fungi are also fundamental for life on earth in their roles as symbionts (mycorrhiza, insect symbionts and lichens) and as well as a primary role in breaking down complex organic molecules from plants and animals, which is a critical step in the global carbon cycle.

Mould (mold) and yeasts are also fungi. Mould is the common name given to the visible form of filamentous fungi that are common in wet areas such as the black growth you will find in many bathrooms. Yeasts are well know in the bread and brewing industry, but also exist as environmental fungi.

Hence our name "Mycologia". At Mycologia, our primary focus is on environmental fungi and is not on macro fungi such as mushrooms and toadstools. We study and identify micro fungi. We can also tell you how to deal with fungi when they become a problem.

Our experience in mycological analysis spans over several decades and a number of continents. We have access to professors and experts across the globe from our formal and informal relationships with institutions, organisations and individuals.

Scheduled Mould Courses. Cairns (QLD) 5th August 2008 [ More Information ] Melbourne 2nd September 2008 [ More Information ] Sydney 14th October 2008 [ More Information ] Perth 18th November 2008 [ More Information ]

From the 'Fifth Kingdom' What’s All The Fuss About Mould Lately? ...Mould can degrade our buildings and cause adverse health effects along the way... [ More Information ] What are Environmental Fungi? Environmental fungi are a distinct category because they are the everyday fungi that we deal with... [ More Information ]