Joining us today to discuss mushroom-forming fungi is Dimitrios Floudas, a researcher and principal investigator at BECC (Biodiversity and Ecosystem services in a Changing Climate). Through his work at BECC, Dimitrios is researching how mushroom-forming fungi break down organic matter produced by other organisms.  While studying at the University of Athens, Dimitrios became very fascinated by fungi – particularly in their diversity and metabolic versatility. Since then, he has studied fungal ecology and function – attempting to understand the evolution and decomposition mechanisms of these complex organisms… Click play to hear Dimitrios talk about: The fundamental questions surrounding fungal biology.  When fungi break down organic matter, and how it is done.  The kinds of materials that fungi typically break down.  The importance of quantifying the composition of fungus.  To learn more about Dimitrios and his research, click here now! Episode also available on Apple Podcast: http://apple.co/30PvU9C