Lactifluus khasianus

Why in news?

Recently, the researchers have discovered a new mushroom species in Meghalaya.

• Scientific name - Lactifluus khasianus
• It is the edible mushroom species.
• Genus –Lactifluus.
  • More than 34 species of Lactifluus are now documented from India, with Meghalaya contributing significantly.
• Discovered in – East Khasi hills of Meghalaya.
• Altitude - It grows in association with Khasi pine (Pinus kesiya) at altitudes of around 1,600 metres.

East Khasi Hills region part of the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot, is increasingly recognised as a treasure trove of fungi.

• Locally known – It is known as “Tit iongnah” by Khasi tribal communities, has long been gathered from the forest floor, sold in local markets during the monsoon, and savoured as a seasonal delicacy.
• Appearance – The mushroom is distinguished by its chocolate-brown cap, distinctive microscopic features, and genetic markers.
• It has its close relatives with Lactifluus gerardii found in North America and Asia, but differs in its larger cystidia (specialised fungal cells) and DNA signatures.
• Edibility - It is now the 5^th confirmed species of this section in India and notably, the first to be reported as edible.
• Significance - The documenting of this fungus helps to safeguards local food heritage, informs conservation of forest ecosystems, and may even open doors to future applications in nutrition and medicine.

Reference

Hub News | New Mushroom species