Ex situ conservation of fungi: A review

Abstract

Present chapter deals with conservation of fungi which are considered as essential genetic material for advancement in fungal biodiversity, biology and biotechnology research and development, beyond depletion of natural resources. Loss of natural resources causes social and ecological impacts, therefore, need sound strategies of long-term preservation and maintenance, which has become a topic of great concern to almost all the countries possessing rich fungal diversity for their utilization on sustained basis and help in generating knowledge-based bio-economy. Subsequent to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) which came into force in 1993, many member countries have acted in conformity with the spirit of the CBD by respecting biological habitats and the rights of indigenous people. Considering fungi are also threatened by climate change, habitat destruction, invasion, pollution, over-exploitation, etc., their conservation has been recognized as important as animal and plants, and convention has emphasized member countries to pay serious attention to conservation and documentation of fungi. It is for these reasons various short and long-term conventional and non-conventional methods, protocols for set up and culture recovery are provided. In addition, important tips are provided regarding care to be taken while applying a particular protocol for preserving and maintaining target fungi.