Since the earliest times on planet Earth the mere existence of life has relied on fungi to overcome, adapt and flourish. As the first fungi oozed its way from the vast oceans to the barren rocky landscapes of ancient earth they began dissolving and devouring those very rocks creating rich, life-giving soil that would later spur the evolutionary outcome of millions of new species of life.
Over the next several millennia (on more than one occasion) again fungi saved life on planet earth from asteroid strikes that would have otherwise wiped out all living creatures due to a lack of sunlight. Because Fungi do not need light to function any living organism that was able to symbiotically co-exist with these prehistoric mushrooms survived as a result. Had this not occurred just as it did the vastly complex series of occurrences needed in order for the first cell on the planet to divide would have been for nothing. Life as we know it would have ceased to exist. History has taught us that any species that learns to live in a symbiotic fashion with these grand molecular recyclers of nature has a clear advantage in the battle for survival.
Today is no different. Present day earth, though far from sitting in darkened plume of smoke and dust, is none the less faced with a terrible and ever growing danger to its inhabitants. The polluting of our air, water and soil has without a doubt reached critical mass. This means that we now sit on the fence of survival or extinction depending on the choices we make TODAY.
As hope seems to fade for the possibility of a sustainable clean planet again mycelium comes wriggling to the rescue. Because fungi is so perfect at breaking down compounds into their most basic elements and doing so at the molecular level there have been countless new discoveries matching mushroom against toxic chemicals and other environmental damages. Mushrooms have undoubtedly proved not only effective in cleaning up toxic pollution in the soil, air and groundwater but also been found to aid the human body in protecting itself against the many harmful effects that these pollutants have on our bodies and minds. From oil spills and industrial waste to cancer prevention and small pox cures, mycology (the study of fungi) is quickly proving to be one of the most effective areas of research for a staggering number of problems that we face as a species.
As each new discovery is made proving the absolute necessity of symbiotically adapting with fungi as a matter of survival from our destructive ways one question remains unanswered. How do we put these discoveries to use? The answer is surprisingly simple. It is up to everyone. Every household, business, local and federal government in the world is responsible in their own way to do their own part in making the use of mycelium to aid in the fight to save the planet, a common practice around the world. Mushrooms have been leading the way to adaptability and survival for millions upon millions of years.
Again, today is no different. So get motivated, get educated but most of all.. Get GROWING! As you progress down the road of mycology you will slowly turn your yard and mind into a healing center for the planet. People will take notice, ask questions and in turn begin to spread the word themselves that mushrooms are here to save the day! From growing edibles for the family to enjoy to creating soil filtering watershed protection, the art of mycology all begins with a few simple steps and the right equipment and knowledge. Weather saving the planet, protecting your health or just stocking the cupboards, you are a mycologist! We are glad to have you here!
article by: Vishnu from the Shroomtalk Forums.