Daisy is thought to be the only dog in the world using her nose to save a critically endangered mushroom.
Scientist hoped Daisy's nose will save the fungus.In a forest in Melbourne's east, she's being drawn towards a smell emanating from something barely bigger than a grain of rice.When she finally finds her target, she'll wag her tail to get the attention of her handler, Nick Rutter.Why the fungus is important
"Fungi are a very vital part of our planet; they provide food for animals, they help with nutrient cycling and purifying water systems, they help with plant productivity," Dr Amor says.The Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria's Shari Barmos, who has studied the fungus for years, says scientists are just beginning to discover the importance of the "amazing species" in the ecosystem.
Alongside Daisy the dog, Ms Barmos uses a mirror to painstakingly check under tree branches for the elusive fungus. Daisy's finely tuned nose isn't just unique to Australia — those involved in the project believe she's the only dog being used to sniff out fungi for conservation purposes worldwide.As a Lagotto Romagnolo , Daisy is gifted with a special sense of smell.
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