7/21 afternoon/night and 7/22 morning

After lunch we headed back to the lab and refreshed the details of the scientific method where we were also introduced to different fungi, such as leucoagaricus (edible fungus), escovopsis (parasitic fungus), and pseudonocardia (antibiotic producing bacteria). Then, we were introduced to a bacterial lab.  In this lab we will determine which area will grow the highest amount of bacteria. Some of us went to dingy places that we thought the bacteria might be prevalent. Being able to design our own experiments was an impactful learning experience, as well as working with others in a professional setting. After our delicious dinner we ended the day with a game night.  We played various kinds of card games giving us the opportunity to become better friends and build connections. This morning, we all met up at El Rancho for breakfast.  After breakfast we visited the Mariposario which is run by the local village ladies.  We learned about the life cycle of the butterflies, how they were kept healthy, how they were fed and the plans for expansion of the Mariposario. The entrepreneurial women who run the butterfly house also make jewelry and soap for sale to supplement their income.  We were able to do a little shopping for souvenirs.  The second half of the morning we went to the lab to participate in more learning and to engage in the scientific process with our lab members.  A question was posed to us:  Try to figure out where escovopsis (the parasitic fungus) would be most abundant within the fungal gardens. 

Look closely at the wing for the snake like camouflage.

                                                                            Butterfly eggs.

Whole group at the butterfly house.

Presentation of a book written and illustrated by 2023 SOC Verona Students for their Seal of Bi-literacy Project!

                                                                  Brainstorming experiments.