A new kind of computer might be on the horizon—one that uses mushrooms to store information. Researchers have created functioning memristors, tiny devices that help process and remember data, using the mycelium of shiitake mushrooms. This part of the fungus acts similarly to the memory components found in today’s computers, but it’s potentially cheaper and more environmentally friendly.
John LaRocco, a psychiatrist at Ohio State University, highlights the energy-saving benefits of these mushroom-based chips. They require less power when not in use, offering a promising edge over conventional silicon chips. This could lead to significant savings and more sustainable computing solutions.
Why mushrooms? Mycelial networks share similarities with how our brains work. They communicate through electrical and chemical signals, resembling synapses—the connections between neurons. Researchers chose shiitake mushrooms for their strong and resilient nature. They are cultivated in controlled environments before being prepared for testing.
After growth, the mushrooms are dried to ensure they maintain their properties. In experiments, researchers connected wires to different parts of the mycelium to assess their electrical characteristics. The results were impressive: the mushrooms achieved a switching speed of 5,850 Hertz with a high accuracy rate of 90%. For comparison, traditional memristors typically start at nearly double that speed.
However, increased voltage reduced performance, prompting researchers to add more mushrooms to the setup. This adaptability highlights the potential for innovative designs in future computing systems.
While we won’t see mycelial computers in our homes just yet, the possibilities are intriguing. The idea of using biodegradable, low-cost materials could revolutionize everything from personal gadgets to aerospace technology. LaRocco suggests that this technology could be produced in small-scale setups like compost heaps or larger facilities, making it accessible.
As researchers continue to explore fungal computing, they remind us that the future of technology might just be rooted in the earth. You can read more about their findings in the published study in PLOS One here.
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