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Prof. Kishore s. Rajput
I am Professor Kishore Rajput, an anatomist, botanist and mycologist with a deep interest in the study of fungal diversity. Under my supervision, the first comprehensive checklist of fungi from Gujarat, India was published in 2015. It has been my privilege to mentor Dr. Ravi Patel and Mr. Ajit Vasava, whose dedication and passion for fungi have led them to continuously expand this research.
Department of Botany , Faculty of Science, The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Vadodara. Gujarat, India - 390002
Dr. Ravi s. Patel
I’m Dr. Ravi Patel, a passionate mycologist dedicated to uncovering and conserving the hidden fungal wealth of Gujarat, India. I have expertise in fungal DNA barcoding and phylogenetic analysis, for the accurate identification and classification of fungi. I also worked on therapeutic evaluation of fungi from Gujarat.
I am the Curator of this website.
Mr. Ajit m. Vasava
I’m Ajit Vasava, a researcher passionate about exploring and documenting the fungal diversity of Gujarat. I have reported many fungi from diverse habitats, contributing to a deeper understanding of their ecological roles ( particularly wood decay and deconstruction of lignin) and importance in sustaining biodiversity.
TEAM - Fungi of Gujarat in photos
To Study Fungi of Gujarat
Why Study Fungi of Gujarat?
Gujarat, a vibrant state on the western coast of India, is home to an extraordinary variety of landscapes This ecological diversity creates an ideal environment for fungi to flourish, making Gujarat as one of the most fascinating regions to study fungal diversity.
Nature’s Diversity
Gujarat is home to an abundance of fungal life. Forested regions such as Gir National Park, Polo Forest, Ratanmahal, Dangs and Saputara Hills reveal rare, colorful, and sometimes undocumented fungi. Rural communities also hold traditional knowledge of wild edible and medicinal fungi, showing their cultural as well as ecological importance.
Geography & Climate
Bordered by the Arabian Sea, Gujarat has a long coastline, dry plateaus, fertile plains, and forested hills. Its hot summers, monsoon rains, and mild winters provide contrasting conditions that support a wide range of fungal species - from desert molds to rainforest mushrooms.
Earlier Work & Discoveries
Gujarat has a long history of fungal research, with studies documenting mushrooms, molds, lichens, and other groups from different ecosystems. Several species have been newly recorded here, contributing to India’s overall fungal diversity. Still, large parts of the state remain unexplored, offering students and researchers exciting opportunities for discovery.
A Living Laboratory
Researchers have long studied Gujarat’s fungi, recording numerous mushrooms, molds, and lichens unique to this region. New species are still being discovered, highlighting how much remains to be explored.
A Global Connection
By studying the Fungi of Gujarat, we contribute not only to conserving India’s natural heritage but also to advancing the global understanding of ecosystems, medicine, and sustainability. This makes Gujarat a truly special place for exploring the hidden world of fungi.