Termite mushroom
Termitomyces eurrhizus
Family: Lyophyllaceae
What it is like
A mushroom. The cap of the fruiting body is 4.5-8.5 cm wide. This is greyish brown.
Also put in the family Agaricaceae.
Where it is found
It is a tropical plant. It grows in moist soil in pine forests and mixed forests. It grows on termite mounds.
Countries/locations it is found in
Africa, Asia, China, East Africa, Himalayas, India, Kenya, Laos, Malawi, Malaysia, Mozambique, Myanmar, Nepal, Northeastern India, Pakistan, Philippines, SE Asia, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia
How it is used for food
It is cooked and eaten as a vegetable.
It is sold in local markets in Nepal. It is popular.
Edible parts
Fungus, mushroom
How it is grown
Its other names
Local names
Chyarmo, Chyau, Het khon kao, Jharno, Kalunge chyau, Kalunge, Madkine, Puchina