Without them there is no life’: the race to understand the mysterious world of Africa’s fungi
Amid growing evidence of fungi’s key role in ecosystems and storing carbon, African scientists are championing the need to preserve ‘funga’ as much as flora and fauna Madagascar has long been celebrated for its remarkable wildlife, with the vast majority of its species – from ring-tailed lemurs to certain species of baobab trees – found nowhere else on the planet. But when discussing the island nation’s endemic treasures, fungi are often left out of the conversation. Yet “fungi are some of the most important things in the world”, says Anna Ralaiveloarisoa, a Malagasy scientist. “They feed 90% of terrestrial plants. Without them, there is no life on the Earth.” As the first homegrown mycologist in Madagascar, Ralaiveloarisoa wants people to better understand the importance of this under-studied kingdom of life, adding that less than 1% of the estimated 100,000 species of fungi in Madagascar have been scientifically described. Ralaiveloarisoa is now working on classifying each of the 200 new species she has identified so far, though she faces plenty of challenges in the process: trying to preserve mushrooms without proper infrastructure; journeying to remote spots in the jungle without reliable roads or electricity; and having no other experts to collaborate with in the country. Though the obstacles are significant, they are ones Ralaiveloarisoa shares with many mycologists in nearby nations. She is part of an emerging cohort of scientists across Africa who are pioneering the study and conservation of fungi in their home countries. Last November, many met for the first time at the International Congress on Fungal Conservation, held in Cotonou, Benin. The conference drew mycologists from 27 countries across Africa, Europe, the Americas and Asia, with several hailing from African countries where they serve as the only – or one of very few – mycologists in the nation. Their congress reflected the growing global momentum behind fungal conservation, and the growing role that African scientists see for themselves within it. Nourou Yorou, a mycologist who was recently named general director of the Benin Agency for Science and Innovation, told delegates at the opening ceremony: “What an exciting time: from almost nothing 20 years ago, fungal conservation has evolved from a little-known field into a dynamic global movement. “The challenge is now to plan a future where fungi are firmly placed in the conservation mainstream.” Across the globe, protecting fungi has lagged significantly behind the conservation of plants and animals. While the first organisations dedicated to protecting birds were established in the 19th century, fungi had to wait until the 21st century, when mycologists from more than 40 countries established the International Society for Fungal Conservation (ISFC) in 2010, and the first conservation nonprofit organisation, the Fungi Foundation, was only created in 2012. David Minter, president of the ISFC, says: “Fungal conservation up to the early 2000s was really just a few disjointed, separate voices of scientists expressing concern about the results they were observing.” Since those groups were established, though, a global movement has emerged. The first conservation legislation to include fungi was passed in Chile in 2013. The Fungi Foundation, which helped get the law passed, began to champion the phrase “fauna, flora, funga” to encourage fungi’s inclusion in more conservation frameworks. In 2010, it was normal not to mention fungi at all in conservation … In the future it will look strange if fungi don’t get a mention David Minter Other organisations began to form: in 2017, North America’s first fungal conservation nonprofit group, Fundis, was created; in 2021, the research organisation SPUN (Society for the Protection of Underground Networks) was cofounded by the evolutionary biologist Toby Kiers, who went on to win the Tyler prize for environmental achievement and a MacArthur “genius grant” for her work in fungal research and conservation. Later this year, the “fungal conservation pledge” first proposed at the UN biodiversity meeting of Cop16 in Colombia in 2024 will be discussed again at the forthcoming biodiversity Cop in Armenia. This interest in conserving fungi has been spurred in part by increasing evidence that they play a far larger role in how ecosystems function than was previously understood: 90% of plants on Earth rely on fungi to supply them with crucial nutrients, and newer evidence is increasingly pointing to the key role that fungi play in helping maintain a stable climate. A recent study found that as much as 36% of annual CO2 emissions from fossil fuels are stored in the underground mycelium of mycorrhizal fungi. Minter compares fungi to waste collectors performing basic but crucial services that allows the rest of society to function – and who everyone tends to overlook until they are gone. He says: “But if [waste collectors] go on strike, we sure know that they’re needed. It’s exactly the same with fungi.” Fungi need protection, Minter adds, because they perform crucial functions in all ecosystems, and are just as susceptible to the climate crisis, habitat destruction and pollution as other living things. And it cannot be assumed that fungi automatically benefit from conservation efforts aimed at animals and plants. A 2025 study published in Nature found that less than 10% of predicted hotspots of mycorrhizal fungal richness – the kind that form symbioses with plants – are protected. “In 2010, it was absolutely normal not to mention fungi at all in conservation,” Minter says. “At some point in the future it will look strange if fungi don’t get a mention. And the very exciting thing is that, right now, we are at that tipping point.” At the Benin congress, African mycologists made it clear that they have the expertise, commitment and interest to back this movement in their own countries and globally. In a workshop designed to help local mycologists evaluate the risk of extinction, Sydney Ndolo Ebika, the Republic of the Congo’s first mycologist, offered useful insights about Termitomyces, a genus of fungi that is “farmed” by termites. Africa is still finding its way in fungal conservation Joyce Jefwa Prized as an edible fungus throughout much
Academic and Scientific Mobility in 2025: Strengthening International Collaboration for Fungal Conservation at MyTIPS Lab.
In 2025, MyTIPS Lab demonstrated strong academic and scientific dynamism through extensive inbound and outbound mobility. A total of 78 partner arrivals strengthened collaboration, knowledge exchange, and joint research activities focused on fungal diversity, taxonomy, and conservation strategies. In parallel, MyTIPS members undertook 14 international outbound trips across Europe, Africa, and North America, fostering partnerships on sustainable use, monitoring, and preservation of fungal resources. These mobilities enhanced capacity building, technology transfer, and the harmonization of conservation approaches. Overall, academic mobility in 2025 significantly contributed to advancing fungal conservation efforts, reinforcing MyTIPS’ leadership in mycology and biodiversity conservation at regional and global levels
Delegates of ISFC4 Visit MyTIPS and FC-SSA Project Sites in Benin
On the morning of November 10, 2025, a delegation from the 4th Congress of the International Society for Fungal Conservation (ISFC4) visited MyTIPS at the University of Parakou, Benin. The visit provided an opportunity for delegates to explore the laboratory’s innovative research in fungal conservation and sustainable use. During their visit, they engaged with researchers to exchange ideas on how scientific knowledge can enhance community livelihoods and biodiversity conservation. The delegation also held a productive meeting with the Vice-Rector. Later, the group traveled to Papatia to meet with beneficiaries of the FC-SSA project and observe ongoing field activities. This visit highlights the strong connection between research, education, and local action, and underscores the role of scientific collaboration in advancing sustainable conservation.
REPORT – Benin at the Heart of Global Fungal Conservation
The 4th International Congress of the International Society for Fungal Conservation (ISFC4) was successfully held from November 3 to 7, 2025, in Cotonou, Benin marking a historic first in Africa! The event brought together over 80 participants from more than 30 countries researchers, students, IUCN experts, and biodiversity actors all united under the theme: “Mainstreaming Fungal Conservation” Integrating fungal conservation into global biodiversity policies. For five days, the congress featured inspiring conferences, panel discussions, and workshops addressing the crucial role of fungi the often-forgotten heroes of our ecosystems and the need to include them in conservation priorities. In this national TV report, listen to the reactions of Professor Nourou Soulemane Yorou, President of the Organizing Committee, and Professor Brice Sinsin, who both highlight the scientific and symbolic significance of this milestone event for Africa. A big congratulations to the organizing team, partners, and participants for this remarkable success that proudly places Benin on the global map of fungal conservation. 🎬 Watch the video below to relive the key moments and reflections from ISFC4! https://drive.google.com/file/d/1TM44oMyEmGrFmHysFng-3GH6a3UdYqeo/view?usp=sharing #ISFC4 #FungalConservation #FungiMatter #ScienceForNature #Benin #Africa
Advocating for Fungal Conservation in Benin
This afternoon, Dramani Ramdan participated in a high-level meeting with Dr. Vivek Menon, newly elected Chair of the IUCN Species Survival Commission, during his official visit to Benin. The gathering brought together members of IUCN-Benin and the SSC Committee to discuss the country’s contribution to species conservation. During the discussions, Dramani passionately advocated for the recognition of fungi as key components of biodiversity, emphasizing their essential ecological roles, from soil regeneration to forest resilience, and their contribution to local livelihoods. He called for their integration into international and national conservation policies, ensuring that fungi are no longer overlooked in global biodiversity agendas.
🌿 Getting Local Communities in International Congress: The Voice from Papatia on the Darwin Main Project 30-020 🌿
Fati Sambo, the FC-SSA project focal point, took part in the Fourth International Congress on Conservation organized by the International Society for Fungal Conservation (3–7 November 2025, Benin). She highlighted the collaboration as a local partner of the project and shared the activities carried out by the Papatia community, including ectomycorrhizal tree nurseries and forest restoration efforts from seed collection and nursery management to reforestation. She emphasized the support provided by the project, including training on mushroom cultivation and the income earned from project activities, praised the initiative, and offered strong recommendations for ensuring the project’s sustainability. The International Society for Fungal Conservation awarded the women of Papatia for their remarkable commitment to fungal conservation through the FC-SSA project. The active integration of local communities, particularly women, aligns with sustainable forest and fungal conservation goals, reinforcing their essential role in environmental stewardship.
New Publication under the Fungal Conservation in Sub-Saharan Africa Project !
Fungal Resources for Human Well-being: Implications for Poverty and Gender Inequality in Sub-Saharan Africa Our new article presents the first large-scale synthesis on the role of wild useful fungi (WUF) in Sub-Saharan Africa. From 95 scientific papers, we identified 396 fungal species, including 47 with medicinal uses. These fungi are rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals, contributing significantly to nutrition, food security, and traditional healthcare. Economically, WUF harvesting and trade mostly led by rural women provide essential income that supports families’ food, education, and health needs. However, challenges like deforestation, under-documentation, and gender inequality threaten their sustainable use. The study calls for inclusive policies, cultivation programs, and value chain strengthening to unlock fungi’s full potential for sustainable development. Read more: https://urlr.me/Pn8Mrx
New Publication under the Fungal Conservation in Sub-Saharan Africa Project!
Festivity as a Conservation Strategy in West Africa In northern Benin, conservation took an unexpected turn it began with music, laughter, and community spirit. Our new article reveals how festivities became a driving force for forest restoration, turning scientific work into a collective celebration of life. Through the Fungal Conservation Project, local communities restored fungi-rich forests by planting native ectomycorrhizal trees while embracing traditional songs and joyful gatherings. These cultural moments united generations, inspired women’s participation, and built a deeper bond between people and nature. This experience reminds us that true conservation is not only ecological, but deeply human where science, culture, and emotion meet to sustain both forests and communities. Read more: https://urlr.me/HCYUfp
First Day of the 4th Congress of the International Society for Fungal Conservation (ISFC4)
Monday, November 3rd, marked the opening of ISFC4, attended by university authorities, IUCN officials, and research stakeholders. Under the theme Mainstreaming Fungal Conservation, the five-day congress brings together 72 mycologists and researchers from 27 countries to share scientific advances on fungi and their integration into biodiversity conservation strategies. The evening featured an online side event with African CBD focal points (Benin, Algeria, Madagascar, Senegal, Burkina Faso, Togo, Tunisia, Mali, and others), several of which agreed to include fungi in their #NBSAPs (National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans). #FungalConservation #Biodiversity #Mycology #ISFC4 #AfricanBiodiversity #ResearchForNature #SustainableFuture #NatureMatters #ScienceForConservation.
Strengthening Community Forests through Reforestation under the FC-SSA Project
From August 25 to 29, 2025, the Fungal Conservation in Sub-Saharan Africa (FC-SSA) project team, together with local beneficiary communities, carried out a large-scale forest reforestation activity. The initiative took place in the community forests of Fouctoume, Kopeinko, and Koubirgou, where the strong involvement of women was particularly remarkable. During this activity, 1,327 Afzelia seedlings, produced by the communities themselves, were successfully transplanted. This follows a previous restoration effort in June 2025 in the community forests of Koka and Aboldé, which led to the transplantation of 1,200 seedlings. Together, these efforts reflect the core objectives of the FC-SSA project: to restore community forests with 3,000 ectomycorrhizal tree species in close collaboration with local communities, strengthening both biodiversity conservation and sustainable livelihoods.
Good News from MyTIPS!
Abdoul-Azize Boukary has successfully completed and defended his PhD thesis at the University of Parakou under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Ir. Nourou Souleman YOROU. His research, titled “Production and culture of edible mushrooms in Benin: Towards the valorization of local saprotrophic species,” provides innovative solutions to the seasonal scarcity of mushrooms in West Africa. By promoting the off-season cultivation of local edible fungi, his work fills a critical gap and contributes to food security, poverty reduction, and the sustainable use of biodiversity. We are proud of this milestone achieved at MyTIPS, and celebrate this success for science, agriculture, and local livelihoods! Congratulations, Dr. Boukary! @MyTIPS @FC-SSA @UniversitéDeParakou
A New Doctor for MYTIPS
We are proud to announce the successful defense of Dr. Olyvia Gwladys FADEYI, whose research focused on: “Ethnomycological investigations, food and medicinal potential of wild mushrooms in Benin.” Conducted under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Ir. Nourou SOULEMANE YOROU at the Doctoral School of Agronomic and Water Sciences, University of Parakou, this work strengthens the core of excellence at MYTIPS the Research Unit on Tropical Mycology and Plant-Soil Fungi Interactions. Beyond the scientific impact, this milestone embodies MYTIPS’s commitment to gender-sensitive approaches by reinforcing women’s representation in fungal research and sustainable development.
FCSSA Project Advances Biodiversity and Fungi Habitat Conservation on Benin’s National Tree Day
To celebrate Benin’s National Tree Day, the FCSSA project planted 1,200 Afzelia seedlings in four beneficiary forests. This initiative was conducted in close partnership with local communities, forestry and wildlife officers, and project members. The project plays a crucial role in protecting biodiversity and conserving the habitats of wild fungi, which are vital for ecosystem health and local livelihoods. Through reforestation and community collaboration, FCSSA strengthens forest resilience and promotes sustainable management of natural resources, contributing to long-term environmental and socio-economic benefits. #biodiversity#forest Conservation #FungiHabitat#Reforestation#sustainability#Benin #FCSSA#communitymanager
Fungi for Sustainable Development: Highlights from the SDGs Kara 2025 Conference
From March 10 to 12, 2025, the Research Unit of Tropical Mycology and Plant-Soil Fungi Interaction participated in the International Conference on SDGs Kara 2025, emphasizing the crucial role of fungi in sustainable development. Their presentations covered fungal conservation and its contribution to SDG 15, the potential of mushroom cultivation in tropical Africa for food security and sustainability, and the impact of fungal resources on human well-being, poverty alleviation, and gender equality. The discussions highlighted the importance of fungi in biodiversity conservation, sustainable agriculture, and socio-economic empowerment. By showcasing these contributions, the team reinforced the relevance of fungi in addressing global challenges and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals.
Official launch of the forest seed harvesting campaign.
As part of executing the activities of the Fungal Conservation in South-Saharan Africa Darwin main project 30-020 (FC-SSA), a project team carried out the « Official Launch of the Forest Seed Harvesting Campaign and Discussions with Nursery Growers in the Villages Benefiting from the FC-SSA Project. » In these villages, teams of 6 to 10 people, with more than 50% women, were formed for the installation of nurseries, as well as the monitoring and maintenance of the plants. The teams were trained on identifying target species (Afzelia africana, Isoberlinia tomentosa, Isoberlinia doka, Uapaka togolensis, Berlinia grandiflora, and Monotes kerstingii) and seed conditioning. Cash collection and storage equipment were also provided to these teams. This mission also included the potting activity, where 4000 pots were prepared to facilitate the nursery establishment. This initiative not only empowered the local communities but also helped in fostering sustainable practices for seedling management and forest conservation. The project is set to positively impact the biodiversity of the region, contributing to the restoration of essential forest ecosystems and promoting the sustainable use of natural resources.
Advancing Fungal Conservation in Benin’s National Biodiversity Strategy
From December 26 to 28, 2024, we participated in a workshop focused on formulating national objectives and defining monitoring indicators as part of the revision of Benin’s National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP), in line with the new Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. The event took place at the Technical Directorate of the National Wood Corporation in Bohicon, gathering representatives from the Departments of Water, Forests, and Hunting, the National Agricultural Research Institute of Benin (INRAB), leaders of non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and mycology researchers, including our team. Our contribution marked a historic milestone: for the first time, a national objective specifically focused on mushroom conservation was included. The objective is to preserve and promote fungal diversity while enhancing their ecological role, ensuring their sustainable use, and protecting their habitats. To monitor the successful implementation of this objective, we defined key indicators, including: – Funding for research and technological advancements in mycology, – The establishment of mushroom conservation sites, – The promotion of traditional knowledge related to fungi. This significant step contributes to the broader global biodiversity efforts and highlights the importance of fungi in sustaining ecological balance.
FC-SSA Participates in COP16 with a Groundbreaking Presentation on Community Inclusion in Restoration Projects
Wilfrid, a member of the Fungal Conservation in Sub-Saharan Africa (FC-SSA) Project, recently participated in the 16th Conference of Parties (COP16) held in Riyad, Saudi Arabia. During a side event organized by CGIAR, Wilfrid delivered a compelling presentation on “What are some practical ways to ensure marginalized communities have a genuine voice in the planning and decision-making of restoration projects?” Drawing on insights from the FC-SSA project, Wilfrid highlighted how the initiative successfully combines biodiversity conservation with social empowerment. The project promotes community-driven approaches, including the establishment of local nurseries and the active involvement of women and marginalized groups in training and decision-making processes. By addressing gender inequality and poverty, the project serves as a model for inclusive and sustainable restoration efforts. The presentation resonated deeply with participants, who were fascinated by the tangible outcomes of the FC-SSA project. Notably, the project has strengthened gender equity while fostering biodiversity conservation a win-win for both people and the planet.
MyTIPS at COP16: Fungal Conservation on the Global Stage
From October 20 to 31, 2024, MyTIPS, led by Prof. Nourou S. Yorou, actively participated in the 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) held in Cali, Colombia. The COP meetings serve as platforms for stakeholders to exchange updates on progress in biodiversity documentation and conservation efforts. COP16, with a total of 20,000 participants, was particularly significant as it focused on reviewing the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. Prof. Yorou’s participation as a mycologist at such a high-level diplomatic and political forum is a first, not only for the Beninese delegation but in the history of COPs. It is well-known that fungi were overlooked at the original CBD meeting in Rio de Janeiro in 1992. However, for the past two decades, efforts have been underway to raise awareness among the public, conservators, and policymakers about the urgent need to protect fungi, which play crucial roles both upstream and downstream in trophic chains. Prof. Yorou’s involvement aimed to bring the voice of fungi to the biodiversity conservation table, while also urging global conservation bodies to take more inclusive actions for fungi. Numerous exchanges and sessions, coordinated by Prof. Yorou, facilitated the sharing of Benin’s experiences in fungal conservation through the « Fungal Conservation in Sub-Saharan Africa » project. Attached are some images from the event, and an audio element can be accessed through the link provided. MyTIPS continues to push the boundaries of fungal ignorance, harnessing the power of collective effort and advancing research on fungi to maximize their utility in biodiversity conservation
Conservation with an impact : Fungi and Indigenous Knowledge – Benin
Discover our groundbreaking project in Benin, where scientists and community leaders unite to elevate the role of fungi in biodiversity conservation. Supported by the Darwin Initiative, we’re committed to sustainable practices that empower local communities while preserving vital ecosystems https://www.permaculture.org.uk/articles/conservation-impact-fungi-and-indigenous-knowledge-benin