Fungi and plants have coexisted for millions of years. Without both organisms, our world would look very different. Here I will discuss the wonderful world of fungi and their close relationship with plants. About our Speaker: Dr. Steve Kutos is a research ecologist at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo – Conservation Biology Institute. Overall, his research explores the relationship between plants and the microorganisms that live on and around them. His current research examines the links between microbes and the conservation and flavor quality of coffee.