Fungal Species: Lactarius indigo

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

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.

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A high-quality genome assembly of Lactarius hatsudake strain JH5

Scientists have completed a detailed genetic blueprint of the red milk mushroom (Lactarius hatsudake), an edible and medicinal fungus that grows in pine forests. This mushroom is nutritious and has been shown to help with diabetes, boost immunity, and fight harmful bacteria. The new genetic map is much more complete and detailed than previous versions, which will help farmers grow these valuable mushrooms more reliably and sustainably, and could lead to developing better varieties.

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