What is ...
Mycelium?
Mycelium is the root part of fungi. It is a network of microscopic filaments that grows in the soil or in an organic substrate. It plays an essential role in the decomposition of organic matter and the formation of humus, thus contributing to the health of ecosystems.
His training
Mycelium is formed from fungal spores that germinate and give rise to fine filaments called hyphae. These hyphae grow and intertwine to form a dense and complex network in the substrate, whether in soil, decaying wood, or any other suitable organic material.
The life cycle of a fungus includes six key stages: the formation of spores, their germination into hyphae, the formation of mycelium, the production of carpophores (mushrooms), sexual reproduction to create new spores, and finally the dispersal of these spores to initiate a new cycle.
His role
In nature: MYCOHRIZIAL SYMBIOSIS
Mushrooms develop in symbiosis with tree roots, which means that each provides the other with the missing substances. The tree provides it with sugars, and the mushroom, through its roots, called mycelium, will then drain the mineral salts.
This symbiotic association is called: mycorrhization.
Mycorrhizal symbiosis is considered a main component in the relationships that the plant maintains with its environment, without this symbiosis these plants would be unable to survive.
Mycelium
SUGAR
WATER
MINERAL SALTS
Carpophore
Roots
Mycorrhizae
Oak
A sustainable alternative
At a time when mountains of waste are accumulating in nature and the oceans, mycelium offers a sustainable and ecological alternative. As a biodegradable material, it helps reduce dependence on plastics and other non-degradable materials responsible for environmental pollution.
In addition, its ability to decompose organic matter and improve soil quality contributes to the preservation and restoration of biodiversity. By choosing mycelium, we can work together for a cleaner future
and more respectful of our planet
Fields of application
Discover how mycelium and mushrooms are transforming various sectors. From eco-friendly construction to soil decontamination, sustainable design, and mycotherapy, these natural resources are paving the way for a more responsible and innovative future.
Eco-friendly construction
Mycelium is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional materials, used to create bricks, insulating panels, and coatings. Lightweight, durable, and biodegradable, it provides excellent thermal and acoustic insulation while being resistant to fire and mold. Grown from organic waste, mycelium transforms agricultural by-products into innovative, environmentally-friendly construction solutions.
Decontamination and restoration
Created by Paul Stamets, mycoremediation combines the terms "mycos" (fungus) and "remedium" (restoration of balance). It is an environmental technology that uses fungi to decontaminate air, water, and soil by breaking down toxic substances such as hydrocarbons and pesticides. Mycoremediation thus contributes to ecosystem restoration and pollution reduction.
Sustainable design
Mycelium offers a unique alternative in sustainable design by enabling the creation of functional and decorative objects, such as lamps, pots, artwork, and packaging. This eco-friendly material not only allows for the design of innovative products but also reduces environmental impact by embracing a resource-conscious approach.
Mycotherapy
Mycotherapy is the science that explores the benefits of mushrooms on the body. Developed primarily in China, it flourished during the Ming dynasty in the 16th century with Li Shizen’s "Compendium of Materia Medica," which cataloged 270 species of mushrooms. Even today, the Reishi mushroom holds a central place in this practice.