Events › Friendly or Deadly? A View into the Mysterious Lives of Fungi

Fungi are all bad, right? Well…not exactly. You might be surprised by how much you benefit from fungi in your everyday life. Come learn about what those mushrooms in the woods or on your pizza are actually doing out there in nature. Learn about how those splotches of color you see on trees and rock—lichens—are actually a mutualism between multiple organisms. By exploring some of the diverse and exciting ways in which fungi interact with a wide range of organisms, Matthew will illustrate how fungi can be both friendly and deadly and provide a window into the mysterious lives of these fascinating and important organisms.

Matthew is a Research Scientist at the Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago, and a Lecturer at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. He has studied fungi for nearly 25 years and his research addresses questions surrounding the evolution of fungi and their interactions with other organisms, with an emphasis on lichen symbioses. Matthew is also the President of the Illinois Mycological Association. Get more info at Matthew Nelsen.

How to Attend
This event takes place in person. Masks are strongly encouraged in all CPL locations. Questions about visiting the library? Check out our Using the Library FAQs.

Accessibility
Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

Photo source: Matthew Nelsen