New Edible Mushroom Species Discovered In Meghalaya Forests

 



The rain-soaked pine forests of the East Khasi Hills in Meghalaya have revealed a new edible mushroom species. Named Lactifluus khasianus, this fungus has long been known to the Khasi tribal communities as Tit iongnah. The discovery was confirmed through modern scientific methods including DNA sequencing. It marks the intersection of indigenous knowledge and contemporary science in biodiversity research.

Recent Discovery and Scientific Validation

A team of researchers from the Botanical Survey of India’s Eastern Regional Centre, St. Xavier’s College (Dumka), and Mahidol University, Thailand, identified the mushroom. They used field surveys, microscopic examination, and genetic analysis. Lactifluus khasianus belongs to the milkcap genus Lactifluus, section Gerardii. It is distinct for its chocolate-brown cap and larger cystidia compared to related species. It grows symbiotically with Khasi pine trees at around 1,600 metres altitude.

Significance to Khasi Tribal Communities

For the Khasi people, Tit iongnah is a familiar seasonal food. It is collected from forests and sold in local markets during the monsoon. This traditional use predates scientific classification by decades. The mushroom is a valued source of protein and micronutrients in tribal diets. This case exemplifies how indigenous knowledge preserves food resources and ecological wisdom.

Contribution to Indian Mycology

Lactifluus khasianus is the fifth species of its section recorded in India and the first confirmed edible one. Meghalaya, part of the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot, is rich in fungal diversity. Over 34 Lactifluus species are documented in India, many from this region. The discovery expands the known fungal biodiversity and underlines Meghalaya’s role as a key area for mycological research.

Broader Implications for Conservation and Science

Documenting new fungal species aids forest ecosystem conservation. It protects local food traditions and supports sustainable harvesting. Scientific knowledge of such fungi may lead to advances in nutrition and medicinal applications. The collaboration between tribal knowledge and scientific research strengthens biodiversity protection efforts.

#NewSpecies
#EdibleMushroom
#MeghalayaForests
#Biodiversity
#FungalDiversity
#NatureDiscovery
#WildMushrooms
#ForestFinds
#ConservationMatters
#Mycology

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