The Ecology of Community Mycology
Community mycology is more than finding mushrooms—it’s a network of people, knowledge, and collaboration. In this talk, independent mycologist Scott Ostuni explores how field observations, citizen science, DNA sequencing, taxonomy, online platforms, and local clubs work together to drive fungal discovery. It highlights how amateurs, professionals, and newcomers collectively expand our understanding of fungi.

Scott Ostuni is a self-taught mycologist and photographer focused on fungal taxonomy in the southeastern United States. He specializes in identification using both molecular data and traditional methods and has described three new psilocybin-containing species. His work also contributes to understanding fungal distribution in Florida. Currently studying the genus Panaeolus, Scott collaborates globally and works to inspire and engage the next generation of mycologists.