Hemileccinum Indicum Latest NewsÂ
Researchers exploring the temperate forests of the Indian Himalayas have discovered a previously unknown species of mushroom named Hemileccinum indicum.
About Hemileccinum Indicum
- It is a new species of mushroom.
- It was found growing among oak trees in the Bageshwar district of Uttarakhand.
- It marks the first time the genus Hemileccinum has been documented in India.
- To confirm the find, the team performed a multigene molecular phylogenetic analysis, a genetic test that helps map the evolutionary tree of a species.
- Features:
- Physically, Hemileccinum indicum is a bolete, a type of mushroom that has pores instead of gills under its cap.
- It features a wrinkled, violet-brown cap that fades to a leathery brown as it matures, and a pastel yellow pore surface that does not change colour when bruised.
- It has tiny, intricate pits on its spores.Â
- These microscopic pinholes and its smooth stem surface distinguish Hemileccinum indicum from its American and Asian relatives, which often have larger, smooth spores or scaly stems.
- Ecologically, these mushrooms are ectomycorrhizal, meaning they form a vital symbiotic partnership with the roots of trees, such as the Quercus (oak) species they were found under, helping the forest exchange nutrients and stay healthy.
Source: RM
Hemileccinum Indicum FAQs
Q1: What is Hemileccinum indicum?
Ans: It is a newly discovered species of mushroom.
Q2: Where was Hemileccinum indicum found?
Ans: It was found growing among oak trees in the Bageshwar district of Uttarakhand.
Q3: What type of mushroom is Hemileccinum indicum based on its structure?
Ans: It is a bolete mushroom with pores instead of gills under the cap.
Q4: What unique microscopic feature is observed on the spores of Hemileccinum indicum?
Ans: The spores have tiny, intricate pits or microscopic pinholes.
