The world's largest living library of soil fungi, the International Collection of Vesicular Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (INVAM), is at risk of shutting down due to federal budget cuts. This collection, which has been in operation for four decades, is home to over 900 distinct fungal strains collected from six continents. INVAM is a crucial hub for mycological research, offering an irreplaceable resource for scientists worldwide. However, the collection's future is uncertain due to funding issues. The Trump administration's proposed budget for fiscal year 2026 would significantly reduce funding for the National Science Foundation (NSF), which supports INVAM, making it even more challenging to secure the necessary funds. Without another grant, the collection can only survive for another year at best. This situation highlights the importance of preserving and supporting such vital research institutions, as they play a critical role in understanding and utilizing the power of fungi for environmental restoration and sustainable agriculture.
