Department of Biomedical Sciences Students Conduct a Field Visit to Wadi Al-Fitr Company for Mushroom Cultivation

On Sunday, November 2, 2025, fourth-year students from the Department of Biomedical Sciences at Cihan University–Erbil conducted a scientific field visit to the Wadi Al-Fitr Company, a specialized facility for mushroom cultivation in Erbil. The visit was organized under the supervision of Assistant Lecturer Hero Ismael Mohammed and Assistant Lecturer Bakhtawar Ziad Omar.

Upon arrival, the students were warmly received by Mrs. Sargul Mohammed Marif, the owner and supervisor of the company. She delivered an informative presentation outlining the stages of mushroom production, including spore collection, cultivation techniques, media preparation, and the application of essential growth factors for optimal development.

A key highlight of the visit was the demonstration of methods used to distinguish between edible and toxic mushroom species, along with procedures for testing and confirming mushroom toxicity. This session provided the students with valuable insights into the biological and biochemical indicators of toxicity an essential component of applied microbiology and food safety.

The tour concluded with a visit to the packaging and storage sections, where the final stages of mushroom production and preservation were demonstrated.

On behalf of the Department of Biomedical Sciences, Assistant Lecturer Hero Ismael Mohammed extended gratitude to Mrs. Sargul Mohammed Marif for her warm hospitality and for offering an invaluable educational experience that enriched the students’ understanding of applied microbiological practices.