Welcome to the World’s First IUCN SSC Centre for Species Survival Fungi

We’re proud to announce that Terra is now home to the world’s first SSC Centre for Species Survival dedicated to fungi.

In partnership with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Species Survival Commission (SSC), this pioneering initiative puts fungi at the heart of global conservation efforts, right here in Dubai.

Why Fungi?

Often overlooked, fungi are nature’s hidden heroes:

• They support over 90% of plant life

• They regulate our climate and clean our ecosystems

• They hold extraordinary promise for breakthroughs in medicine, design and more

Yet fungi remain the most under-researched and under-protected group in biodiversity.

What the Centre Does

Led by global experts based at Terra, the Centre will:

• Spearhead the IUCN Red List assessments for fungi

• Launch the world’s first fungi-focused extinction risk research at scale

• Collaborate with conservationists, mycologists, and scientists across 186 countries

This is not just a scientific milestone – it’s a call to action to rethink what we value, protect, and preserve.

A Global First, Rooted in the UAE

As the first IUCN SSC Centre for Species Survival in the Middle East, this initiative reflects the UAE’s bold environmental vision and Expo City Dubai’s legacy as a global platform for sustainability, innovation, and education.

Discover More at Terra

At Terra, you’ll encounter fungi in a new light – from their underground magic to their world-changing potential. Our exhibits, events, and experiences explore the power of fungi to inspire wonder, drive solutions, and reconnect us with the natural world.