Scientists from India have discovered a new species of mushrooms with truly giant sizes. Individual specimens reach three meters in diameter and are so sturdy that one can sit on them. The discovery was made in the forests of Arunachal Pradesh during the monsoon season.
The giant mushroom grows in large groups of 40 or more fruiting bodies. It prefers the trunks of coniferous trees, primarily firs. The largest specimens exceed 3 meters in radius. "They are so big that I could sit on them, and they remained firmly attached to the tree," says the lead researcher Arvind Parihar.
The new species has been named Bridgeoporus kanadii in honor of Indian mycologist Kanad Das. Previously, only one species was known in this genus — B. nobilissimus, which grows in North America. Thus, the Indian giant mushroom has become the second officially described representative of the genus.
Bridgeoporus kanadii is inedible and has no economic value, but it plays an important role in the ecosystem. The mushroom decomposes dead wood, participating in the nutrient cycle, helps break down cellulose and lignin, and contributes to forest restoration.
"Our perception of mushrooms is too limited. Most people are only interested in whether they are edible or poisonous. But all mushrooms work unnoticed, supporting our ecosystems," notes Parihar.
