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Abstract Detail



Mycological Section

David, Samuel Thomas [1], Volk, Thomas [2].

Major Fungal Effects on Human History.

Fungi make up an extremely diverse and influential Kingdom. They are often overlooked in biology classes because they are not well understood. This poster presentation is designed for a classroom setting to highlight times fungi have altered human history. Amanita muscaria and Psilocybe cubensis definitely have a place in culture now, but may have played roles in the development of religion. The use of Saccharomyces cerevisae to make bread is said to be mans oldest profession. Claviceps purpurea, commonly known as Ergot, is responsible for the Salem Witch Trials, the psychedelic revolution of the sixties, and some medications used in childbirth. In addition to complex social issues between Ireland and Britain, the Irish Potato Famine was caused when Phytopthora infestans spoiled large amounts of potatoes over two growing seasons. In 1928, Sir Alexander Flemming noticed a mold contaminant, a Penicillium, inhibited bacterial growth on a plate. This discovery not only introduced the first widespread antibiotic, it paved the way for all antibiotic treatments we use today. These selected events demonstrate how a diverse group of Fungi can be beneficial and/or harmful.


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1 - University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, Biology, 1725 State St., La Crosse, WI, 54601, USA
2 - University of Wisconsin-La Crosse

Keywords:
educational
Fungi
history.

Presentation Type: Poster:Posters for Sections
Session: P
Location: Hall D/The Shaw Conference Centre
Date: Monday, July 27th, 2015
Time: 5:30 PM
Number: PMY059
Abstract ID:1031
Candidate for Awards:None


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