From 8-meter mushrooms to zombie ants, we will explore the mysteries of the Kingdom Fungi and their importance to us all.
Mycologist Serenella Linares will share the natural history of these fascinating creatures, their ecological roles, and their ever-changing taxonomy; she’ll also reveal how these organisms interact with different environments and how crucial fungi are in human lives. This program is a 2-part series, with a lecture portion followed by a day of discovery and forest exploration to see and identify the organisms in their natural habitat.
Cancellations with full refund are available if made more than 7 days prior to the start of the class.
Instructor’s Bio: Serenella Linares serves as Principal Park Naturalist at Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission. Prior to joining MNCPPC, Ms. Linares was the Director of Adult Education at Audubon Naturalist Society (ANS), Co-Chair of Naturally Latinos, and an assistant park naturalist with the Prince George’s County Department of Parks and Recreation. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in biology from Universidad Metropolitana de Puerto Rico, a Master’s degree in atmospheric science from Howard University, and graduate training in mycology from University of Maryland. When Ms. Linares is not teaching, she explores natural areas, practices nature photography, and participates in citizen science projects.
Through the Naturalist Hour, Natural History Field Studies, and Master Naturalist programs, Serenella uses the virtual world as an introductory door into the fascinating aspects of nature and a catalyst for people to get inspired to learn more in person.