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We now have our own lab (863 sq. ft.), which is large enough to accommodate a range of activities. It is divided into three "virtual" zones for research projects and work on the collection: (i) general activities pertaining to the collection, (ii) microscopy-photography area, and (iii) molecular research area. click on photos for larger images |
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| In this area, spores extracted from active cultures are examined every day (usually 5-20 cultures at any given time). Vouchers are made at this time, if necessary and stored in oak boxes alphabetically by species name. Results of these observations are recorded on a printed form and also entered into our Oracle database. |  |
| A sit-down table was designed specifically for efficient microscopic and photographic activities, which are critical to collection maintenance. Spores are collected, examined, and mounted by students, visitors, and staff for a myriad of projects or just to monitor cultures. A digital camera can be placed on any scope for photographic purposes. Data are entered on the computer from any workstation via a mobile wireless keyboard and mouse. |  |
| One side of the lab is devoted to instrumentation for extraction, amplification, and visualization of DNA in our quest to utilize genes for discrimination of species. Materials are stored at 4oC, -20oC, or -80oC (the last in an incubator room on the floor above). |  |