FC SSA

PHD 1: Apollon D.M.T. HEGBE

Data management, myco-informatic and software developement for an holistic assessment of fungal diversity and conservations statuts

Presentation

Biodiversity is the lifeblood of our planet, underpinning the resilience and sustainability of ecosystems upon which human societies depend. Within the rich tapestry of Earth’s biodiversity, fungi occupy a crucial, albeit often overlooked, role. As nature’s silent architects, fungi are not only essential for nutrient cycling and decomposition but also form intricate symbiotic relationships with plants and influence the health of entire ecosystems. Yet, despite their ecological significance, fungi remain a scientifically enigmatic and underexplored component of our planet’s biological diversity. In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the need to comprehensively understand and conserve fungal diversity. This recognition has given rise to an emerging field that combines data management, myco-informatics, and software development to conduct holistic assessments of fungal diversity and conservation status. This multifaceted approach seeks to unlock the secrets of the fungal kingdom, shed light on its ecological importance, and inform conservation strategies that safeguard these vital organisms and the ecosystems they inhabit.This PhD project embarks on a journey into the world of fungi, delving into the realms of data management, myco-informatics, and software development. It explores the synergistic relationship between these three pillars of research and their pivotal role in advancing our knowledge of fungal diversity and conservation in Sub-Saharan Africa.