Macrofungi
are essential components of terrestrial ecosystems, contributing significantly
to nutrient cycling, decomposition, and symbiotic interactions. The present
study was undertaken to document and identify macrofungal diversity within a semi-natural college campus
ecosystem in Mysuru, India. Field surveys were conducted during the monsoon and
post-monsoon seasons across diverse microhabitats, including lawns, garden
soils, decaying wood, tree bases, and termite mounds. Specimens were collected,
photographed in situ, and identified based on macromorphological and
microscopic characteristics using standard taxonomic keys. The study recorded
the occurrence of five ecologically important genera: Ganoderma, Scleroderma, Leucocoprinus,
Coprinellus disseminatus, and Termitomyces. Ganoderma species were
predominantly associated with decaying wood and functioned as white-rot
decomposers. Scleroderma species exhibited ectomycorrhizal associations with
tree roots, indicating their role in plant nutrition and soil health. Leucocoprinus
and Coprinellus disseminatus were observed on organic-rich substrates,
contributing to rapid decomposition and nutrient recycling. Termitomyces species
were closely associated with termite mounds, reflecting their obligate
symbiotic relationship and role in lignocellulosic degradation. The findings
highlight that even managed campus environments can support diverse and
functionally significant macrofungal communities. The seasonal occurrence of
these fungi during periods of high humidity underscores the influence of
environmental factors on fungal growth. This study emphasizes the ecological
importance of macro fungi and the need for their continued documentation and
conservation in semi-urban landscapes, while also recognizing their potential
ecological, economic, and biotechnological significance.
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