ethnomycology – mycolab.ai

Folk taxonomy of wild mushrooms in communities of the indigenous groups Chatino, Chontal, and Chinantec in Oaxaca, Mexico

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Indigenous communities in Mexico have developed sophisticated systems for naming and classifying wild mushrooms based on where they grow, what they look like, and cultural beliefs. This study documents how the Chatino, Chontal, and Chinantec peoples of Oaxaca name 32 different mushroom species using their own languages. Older community members know more indigenous mushroom names than younger people, showing that this traditional knowledge is gradually being replaced by Spanish terms. Understanding these traditional naming systems helps preserve cultural heritage and ensures communities can safely identify which mushrooms are safe to eat.

Andorran ethnomycology: culinary uses and beyond

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This research documents how people in Andorra traditionally use wild mushrooms for food and medicine. Researchers interviewed 131 older residents and found 50 different types of mushrooms being used, with over 150 local names for them. Most uses were for cooking (97%), with mushrooms being dried, pickled, or frozen. The study identified several mushrooms that might be valuable for future nutritional research and product development.

How funnel chanterelle (Craterellus tubaeformis) became an urban forager favorite in Scandinavia

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Funnel chanterelles were ignored by Scandinavian peasants for centuries despite being abundantly available, but as cities grew and attitudes changed, they became popular among urban foragers starting in the 1970s. Today, they are one of the most sought-after wild mushrooms in Sweden and Norway, available fresh or dried in stores and widely served in restaurants. The mushroom’s popularity reflects broader cultural shifts toward valuing local foods, spending time in nature for leisure, and integrating traditional wild foods into modern cuisine.

The ethnomycological knowledge of Karajá indigenous people from Bananal Island, Brazil

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Researchers studied how the Karajá indigenous people of Brazil understand and use fungi in their daily lives. While the Karajá don’t eat mushrooms as food, they recognize various fungi in their environment and use them for medicine, decorations in festivals, and childhood play. The study found that the Karajá have a neutral to slightly positive view of fungi, neither strongly liking nor disliking them, and their knowledge is passed down through families from childhood.

Research Keyword: ethnomycology

Folk taxonomy of wild mushrooms in communities of the indigenous groups Chatino, Chontal, and Chinantec in Oaxaca, Mexico

Andorran ethnomycology: culinary uses and beyond

How funnel chanterelle (Craterellus tubaeformis) became an urban forager favorite in Scandinavia

The ethnomycological knowledge of Karajá indigenous people from Bananal Island, Brazil