The University of Évora, within the framework of the SOS PRODEHESA MONTADO project, has opened applications for the microcredential “Mushrooms: Guardians of the Forests”, a specialised training course focused on the role of fungi in forest health, biodiversity and soil conservation.
Fungi play a key role in maintaining the balance of forest ecosystems. Their relationship with plants and soil contributes to nutrient cycling, the formation and preservation of organic matter, and the maintenance of forest structure and functionality.
This microcredential offers a practical and ecological approach to understanding macrofungi, with particular attention to their identification, their ecological role and their contribution to the recovery and sustainable management of forest areas.
Training to understand the role of fungi in ecosystems
During the course, participants will explore topics such as:
- Nutritional modes of macrofungi.
- Identification of wild edible, non-edible and toxic species.
- Relationships between fungi, plants and soil.
- The importance of macrofungi for forest health and resilience.
- The role of mycological resources in the recovery of degraded, burned or otherwise disturbed areas.
- Good practices for the sustainable management of fungi, vegetation and soils.
The training is aimed at professionals, technicians, land managers, landowners, researchers, students and, more broadly, anyone interested in expanding their knowledge of mycology, biodiversity, forest conservation and the sustainable management of dehesa and Montado systems.
Applications open
Applications will be open from 8 to 19 October 2026.
The microcredential will run from 13 to 28 November 2026 and is organised by the University of Évora within the SOS PRODEHESA MONTADO project.
This training provides an opportunity to better understand the importance of fungi in the functioning of forest ecosystems and to gain useful knowledge for their conservation, responsible use and sustainable management.
Microcredential: Mushrooms: Guardians of the Forests
Applications: 8–19 October 2026
Course dates: 13–28 November 2026
Organised by: University of Évora
Project: SOS PRODEHESA MONTADO