New Mushroom Species Discovered in Arunachal Pradesh

Discovery of Parasola plicatilis in Arunachal Pradesh

Itanagar, Jan 10: A noteworthy addition to the biodiversity of Arunachal Pradesh has been made with the identification of a small saprophytic mushroom, known scientifically as Parasola plicatilis (Curtis) Redhead, Vilgalys and Hopple, commonly referred to as the Pleated Inkcap.

This mushroom was discovered at the ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) experimental farm in Longding. The initial observation and collection were carried out by Dr. Tilling Tayo, who serves as the Assistant Chief Technical Officer in Animal Science.

Following the collection, Dr. Deep Narayan Mishra, a Subject Matter Specialist in Plant Pathology, was informed about the findings. He confirmed the species based on its unique morphological characteristics, including a distinctly pleated grey cap, a slender and fragile stalk, and gills that do not dissolve.

Parasola plicatilis is recognized for its saprotrophic nature, featuring an extremely delicate, paper-thin cap and a brief lifespan, typically under 24 hours.

Despite being non-edible and lacking commercial value due to its fragile structure and short life, this mushroom plays a crucial ecological role.

It aids in the decomposition of leaf litter and organic materials by secreting extracellular enzymes, which contributes to nutrient mineralization, carbon cycling, and the availability of essential nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus for plants.

Researchers have noted that the presence of this mushroom signifies a biologically active soil system, which supports healthy microbial communities and indicates favorable soil fertility in moist, organic-rich environments.

Such organisms are essential for maintaining the dynamics of soil organic matter and ensuring ecosystem productivity.