The Tropical Microbiology Research Foundation’s work focuses on exploring and documenting fungal diversity across a broad range of Sri Lanka’s ecosystems. This includes aquatic habitats, such as freshwater and marine environments, as well as terrestrial ecosystems and extreme conditions, including caves and hot springs. The research utilises a comprehensive polyphasic approach combining morphology, molecular phylogenetics, and taxonomy for accurate fungal identification. The scope also covers applied studies on the biotechnological potential of fungi and involves maintaining culture collections to support biodiversity preservation and further research.

  • Identification of fungi from aquatic, terrestrial, and extreme habitats

  • Use of morphological and molecular tools for precise classification

  • Exploration of fungal groups such as Basidiomycota, lichenicolous, and endophytic fungi

  • Investigation of the industrial applications of fungal enzymes and compounds

  • Preservation of fungal strains in culture collections

  • Fostering national and international collaborations for tropical fungal research