On 16 May 2026, the INIAV DxHub team participated in the International Plant Fascination Day, held at the Mercado Municipal de Oeiras in Portugal. The event brought together researchers, institutions, companies, and members of the public to celebrate the vital role of plants in our lives and highlight the importance of plant science for sustainable agriculture, food security, and environmental resilience.
Launched by the European Plant Science Organisation (EPSO), International Plant Fascination Day is celebrated by hundreds of organisations across more than 50 countries. In Portugal, the initiative is coordinated by ITQB NOVA and the Portuguese Society of Plant Biology, encouraging scientific institutions and companies to engage citizens through interactive activities and demonstrations.
Bringing diagnostics closer to the field
As part of the event, the INIAV DxHub team showcased the activity “Field Laboratory: How to Identify Plant Diseases in Real Time”, demonstrating how innovative diagnostic technologies can support farmers in making faster and more informed decisions.
Visitors had the opportunity to see a rapid diagnostic test for the detection of downy mildew in wild rocket (Diplotaxis tenuifolia), using the portable DoctorVida device. Designed for real-world agricultural conditions, the handheld platform enables on-site disease detection, reducing the need for laboratory analysis and allowing earlier intervention to protect crops.
The live demonstration illustrated how portable diagnostics can contribute to healthier crops, more sustainable farming practices, and improved food production by providing rapid and reliable results directly in the field.
Engaging the public through science
Participating in International Plant Fascination Day provided an excellent opportunity for the DxHub consortium to connect with citizens, students, and families, showcasing how research and innovation are driving the future of plant health.
By making advanced diagnostic technologies accessible and understandable to the public, DxHub continues to promote awareness of the importance of early disease detection and the role of innovative biosensing solutions in strengthening Europe’s agri-food sector.
Events like these demonstrate how collaboration between researchers, technology developers, and society can accelerate the adoption of cutting-edge solutions that support sustainable agriculture and reinforce the One Health approach promoted by the DxHub project.
Photo caption: The INIAV DxHub team demonstrates the portable DoctorVida device for the rapid detection of downy mildew in wild rocket (Diplotaxis tenuifolia), showcasing real-time plant disease diagnostics during the International Plant Fascination Day at Mercado Municipal de Oeiras, Portugal.