Travels with Metschnikowia

Abstract For over four decades, I have explored hotspots of biodiversity in search of yeasts that could increase our understanding of the meaning of species as the concept applies to yeasts. This led to the discovery, description, and characterization of many Metschnikowia and other species. What published species descriptions do not report is the context of their discoveries, the people and the places involved. This is an abridged account of some of the paths I followed in making these yeast discoveries and some of the wonderful people that have made them possible. Selected memories about education, serendipity, boots, dress trousers, pantyhose, t-shirts, hugs, magic, friendships, symbioses, beetles, morning glories, missing nuclei, love, and loss. The road to an increased understanding of yeast species and the wonderful people who accompanied me on the journey.