At the UN’s biodiversity conference in October 2024, a “Fungal Conservation Pledge” was proposed stating that fungi should receive protection status equal to that of animals and plants.  Fungi are responsible for generating and maintaining much of the life we see above ground. Fungi form symbiotic relationships with bushes and trees, helping them absorb nutrients from the soil while receiving sugars in return. Fungi - working both underground and above - help keep the soil healthy, and store over a third of global carbon emissions each year. Despite these crucial functions, fungi have historically not received much consideration. Of the estimated 2-4 million fungal species, only about 8% have been identified, with 2,000 new species discovered each year. Puffballs are among the types of wild mushrooms that many people recognize. But did you know that puffballs are not a coherent taxonomic group?  They come from many different families and genera, even different phyla! Take a look at these three puffball species for a peak into the Upper Peninsula’s fungal diversity. 

Gem-Studded Puffball - Lycoperdon perlatum

Peeling Puffball - Lycoperdon marginatum

Spiny Puffball (spines gone) - Lycoperdon echinatum