What Now: Name Changes in the DNA Age

Noah Siegel presents What Now: Name Changes in the DNA Age. The way that we name our mushrooms is undergoing a massive overhaul as DNA sequencing technology becomes a standard for naming species. "They changed the name AGAIN?!" Is commonly exclaimed at mycology gatherings, and science is not about to slow down so everyone can catch up. A lot has changed over the years, and it seems that as soon as you learn the new name, a newer one hits the scene to replace it. This presentation will highlight the stories behind some of our mushrooms' many names, who's related to whom, and why scientific advancements spell more taxonomic transitions to come.

Noah Siegel is a nationally known award-winning photographer and mushroom identifier. He is drawn to fungi by its wide variety and unsung nature. He is co-president and a walk leader for the Monadnock Mushroomers Unlimited in Keene, New Hampshire, and a trustee for the North East Mycological Federation. While mostly based in the northeastern US, he has also sought mushrooms out throughout the United States and Canada as well as New Zealand and Australia. Doors open at 7:30 pm for mushroom identification. Meeting and lecture starts at 8:00.