A Look Back at the 44th Fall Mushroom and Plant Fair: A Success for People of All Ages!

On October 19 and 20, 2024, the School of Pharmacy was pleased to host the 44th edition of the Fall Mushroom and Plant Fair, organized by the Hérault Society of Horticulture and Natural History. The event attracted a diverse, multigenerational audience, bringing together students, families, and enthusiasts for two days of exhibitions and lectures.

Visitors were able to explore a collection of 280 species of fresh mushrooms and discover fall plants and fruits, carefully displayed by botanists and mycologists. Workshops on distinguishing between edible, poisonous, and deadly mushrooms were offered. An insect exhibit was also presented by entomologists.

Two conferences were the highlights of the weekend:

• “Cordyceps, the Mushrooms of Manipulation,” by Luis Portillo-Lemus, an associate professor in the School of Pharmacy, explored the fascinating interaction between fungi and parasitic insects, captivating an audience of about 100 people on Saturday.
• “Pollinators: What Does the Future Hold?” by Gérard Duvallet, professor emeritus and medical entomologist, brought the event to a close on Sunday before an equally large audience, raising timely questions about the future of pollinators and the challenges facing biodiversity.

The fair provided the perfect setting for rich and engaging discussions among experts, students, and enthusiasts.