“Colombo Mushrooms”, a colourful,comprehensive and photographic field guide to Colombo’s fungal kingdom was successfully launched on 29th November 2024 at the Colombo Museum Auditorium. Aravi Arya Srimevan, a 7-year-old mushroom enthusiast, began her mushroom hunting and research journey back in 2023. Aravi’s love for nature and a desire to understand the intricate world of fungi led her on a quest to identify local mushrooms. Frustrated by the absence of a comprehensive field guide, she decided to take matters into her own hands and write one herself.
With the support and assistance of her parents, Aravi met several mushroom experts, explored mushroom books, and used online resources to identify various mushrooms. She then compiled the photos and details she gathered into her book, Colombo Mushrooms.
Aravi’s Colombo Mushroom Guidebook is a practical and engaging resource designed for kids to discover and identify common mushrooms found in Colombo. Featuring simple descriptions, vibrant illustrations, and tips for safe and fun mushroom hunting, this guidebook is the perfect companion for nature walks. It encourages children to connect with their environment while exploring the fascinating world of fungi.
Showcasing over 30 distinct mushroom species found within Colombo’s urban landscape, the book provides stunning, clear photographs and detailed information on their habitats. Aravi invites readers to join her on a fungal adventure by sharing their discoveries. With unwavering enthusiasm, she is committed to deepening her knowledge and contributing to the understanding of local fungi.
