Lecture GLIVE AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE: biodiversity, innovative research, and conservation

The event took place as part of the 4th African Fungal Day and was dedicated to finding connections between natural sciences, modern technology, and global challenges of biodiversity conservation.

The diverse program brought together researchers, mycologists, programmers, and biotechnology experts from around the world. The central theme was the use of artificial intelligence to support mycological research and fungal conservation. Modern approaches to digital identification of fungi were presented, such as machine learning algorithms, smart applications for species identification in the field, and digital databases that enable faster and more accurate insight into fungal biodiversity.

Special attention was also paid to linking mycology with other fields – from medicine and agriculture to environmental protection and cultural heritage. The speakers highlighted the important role of fungi in ecosystem regeneration, pollutant degradation, and the development of new biotechnological solutions. At the same time, they pointed out the need for global cooperation and joint research initiatives, especially in the context of climate change and biodiversity loss. The event provided a valuable exchange of knowledge and inspiration for further integration of the scientific sphere with innovation, digital tools, and broader social awareness of the importance of fungi in our environment.

Participation in the event took place within the framework of cooperation between the EPEKA Association, so. p. and the Mikolaš Museum of Slovenia – Natura Slovenika Institute.

Observations have shown that fungal growth is still weak due to weather conditions during this period, which confirms the importance of regular field monitoring and documentation of the occurrence of individual species. Such excursions are important for understanding the mycological diversity of Slovenian forests and for raising awareness of the importance of fungi in the ecosystem.

The excursion was organized as part of the cooperation between the EPEKA Association, so. p., and the Mycological Museum of Slovenia – Zavod Natura Slovenika.