The Mycology Club at Northwest Yeshiva High School is making the study of fungi into a hands-on science experiment. 

The club was founded last year by Elizabeth Gabbay, who is now a senior, and Ben Legel, science teacher and staff sponsor for the Mycology Club. The club studies fungi through various activities, such as nature walks and lab experiments. With help from Legel, students explore various ways to study fungi.

“Most people think of mushrooms, but there are also different fungi that live in all kinds of environments,” Gabbay said. “They play a very important role in many ecosystems.”

Last year, the club had guest speakers, tested mushroom DNA and experimented with making natural dye using fungi. Members of the club also grew blue, white and pink oyster mushrooms in class and at home. This year, the club hopes to do cooking experiments using the school’s kitchen.

“We want to find a day where the Mycology Club can grow mushrooms, cook them, and offer them to students at lunch,” Legel said.

Legel and Gabbay both emphasized the importance of being cautious when foraging for wild mushrooms. Many harmful mushrooms resemble safe, edible ones. “If you aren’t sure, then probably don’t,” Gabbay said.

Legel says the excitement of mycology comes from the discovery. “It’s like a little treasure hunt to find them outside,” he said. “They’re fascinating organisms.”

Gabbay encourages new students to join the club. “Even if you have no interest in mycology, the club is a great place to meet curious people,” she said.

The Mycology Club meets on Monday at lunch and is open to all students.