September 26, 2024 – A MYCO Expedition was held at the ASCOT Edible Forest in the Bazal Campus, aimed at identifying the diverse species of mushrooms thriving within the campus grounds.The term “Myco,” a combining form meaning “mushroom, fungus,” used in the formation of compound words: mycology , captures the essence of this expedition, which was led by ASCOT President Dr. Renato G. Reyes together with Dr. Rich Milton R. Dulay, head of the CLSU Center for Tropical Mushroom and Development. Joining the team were ASCOT and CLSU Researchers, Ms. Rica Napoles of ASCOT, and Rabbi Daniel S. Elas, Edward M. Manzano, and Ashley Cyd I. Catacutan of CLSU.
The expedition aimed to document local mushroom species, which hold both ecological and economic potential for sustainable cultivation. By identifying and studying these species, ASCOT researchers hope to enhance local agriculture and environmental sustainability efforts. During the hike, President Reyes also spotted and photographed the Begonia akkaw .
According to a recent publication, the said Begonia species is endemic to the Aurora Memorial National Park in Luzon, located within the Sierra Madre Mountain Range. This discovery was made by researchers from the Philippine Taxonomic Initiative and published in Phytotaxa, a renowned botany-focused scientific journal. President Reyes expressed interest in conducting further studies on this plant, with the goal of promoting its propagation as a decorative plant for ASCOT homes and gardens.
Photos taken by: Mel Aboy of ASCOT Information Unit