A rare mushroom native to Chile’s mountains, known as the big puma fungus (Austroomphaliaster nahuelbutensis), has been rediscovered more than 40 years after its initial sighting in 1982. Mycologist Norberto Garrido first collected the fungus during expeditions to the Nahuelbuta mountain range and formally described it in 1988, noting its unique features such as grey-brown color with a hint of red, a depression in the middle of the cap, and white gills underneath. The fungus, standing around 4 to 5 centimetres tall, is the only species in its genus, making it particularly special.
Recently, researchers at the Fungi Foundation in Chile decided to search for this elusive fungus again. Last May, a team led by Daniela Torres embarked on a week-long expedition in the Nahuelbuta mountains and successfully located a patch of mushrooms that matched Garrido’s description. Through DNA analysis, they confirmed that these mushrooms were indeed the big puma fungus.
The rediscovery of this species is significant as it allows researchers to learn more about its biology and evaluate its conservation status. Torres hopes that by studying this rare fungus, she can determine its distribution and implement protection measures to ensure its survival. She emphasizes the importance of fungi in maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem health. As many plants depend on fungi for survival, their inclusion in conservation efforts is crucial for preserving natural habitats.
This discovery highlights how little we still know about our planet’s diverse ecosystems and underscores the need for continued research and exploration into these unknown territories. With every new discovery comes a greater understanding of how these systems work together and how they are interconnected.
