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UF Museum of Natural History to host fungi event

People will have the opportunity to learn more about a diverse group of organisms in a fun atmosphere at the University of Florida Museum of Natural History, which is hosting a fungi information event with scientists Tuesday night as part of its Science Cafe series.

Matthew Smith, an assistant professor at the department of plant pathology at the University of Florida, will present “Fungus Among Us: Knowing the Diversity and Ecology of Fungi.”

“Most people don’t know very much about fungi, and they can’t necessarily identify what is and what isn’t a fungus," Smith said.

Smith said he will be discussing what a fungus is, the diversity of the organism and its evolutionary history.  He will also discuss the latest scientific research and provide a few local examples of fungi.

Following the presentation, audience members can participate in an open discussion with the scientists.

“The idea is to make it fun and the scientists approachable,” Smith said.

The event is free and starts at 6:30 p.m. at Chef Brothers Custom Catering off of Northwest 34th Street. Smith said he is expecting about 70 people to attend.

“I hope people come out and are ready to talk about some interesting organisms.”

Kristen Morrell edited this story online.

Sabrina is a reporter for WUFT News who may be contacted by calling 352-392-6397 or emailing news @wuft.org