There will be two round table sessions held during IAFC 2026.
Anaerobic Fungi: Targets for Methane Mitigation or Tools for Methane Production?
Dr Robert Gruninger, Lethbridge Research and Development Centre, Canada
Dr Veronika Flad, Bavarian State Research Center for Agriculture, Germany
Close metabolic interactions between anaerobic fungi (AF) and methanogens directly influences both methane production and lignocellulosic biomass digestion. This round table will explore the contrasting opportunities to manipulate these interactions: (i) limiting AF contributions to methanogenesis as a strategy to reduce enteric methane emissions, and (ii) harnessing the exceptional fibre-degrading capacity of AF to enhance methane production from lignocellulosic biomass in bioindustrial systems. The discussion will highlight current knowledge, key research gaps, and opportunities to better understand and exploit fungal–methanogen interactions.
In Memory of Prof Colin Orpin: Progress and Persistent Challenges in the Cultivation and Preservation of Anaerobic Fungi
Prof Mostafa Elshahed, Oklahoma State University, USA
Dr Veronika Flad, Bavarian State Research Center for Agriculture, Germany
Prof Yanfen Cheng, Nanjing Agricultural University, China
This round table honours the life and pioneering work of Prof Colin Orpin, whose discovery of anaerobic fungi transformed our understanding of the fungi kingdom and its role in the rumen microbiome. It will reflect on his scientific legacy and examine current progress in cultivating fungi from the phylum Neocallimastigomycota. Particular attention will be given to the persistent challenges of maintaining viability, preserving genetic and phenotypic diversity, and establishing reliable protocols for long-term storage in culture collections. The discussion will consider how these efforts can safeguard Orpin’s legacy for future research.
