Termite mushroom
Termitomyces microcarpus

Family: Lyophyllaceae

What it is like

A mushroom. The fruiting bodies are 3-6 cm across.

Also put in the family Agaricaceae.

Where it is found

A tropical plant. It grows on termite mounds.

Countries/locations it is found in

Africa, Angola, Asia, Benin, Burundi, Cameroon, Central Africa, Central African Republic, CAR, China, Congo DR, East Africa, Gabon, Himalayas, Hong Kong, India, Indochina, Indonesia, Kenya, Laos, Malawi, Malaysia, Mozambique, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Rwanda, SE Asia, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Southern Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Thailand, Uganda, West Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe

How it is used for food

It is sold in local markets.

Edible parts

Fungus, mushroom

How it is grown

They can be dried and stored for later use.

Its other names

Local names

Het kai noy, Huo ba ji zong, Kulat tali, Mohi, N'kpame kekpeka, Nzawu, Obuoch-omegre, Oron, Puo' me fufu, Ubumegeri, Unyakigulu, Unzawu, Xiaoyichaosan

Synonyms

Agaricus microcarpus Berk. & Br.; Entoloma microcarpum (Berk. & Br.) Sacc.; Collybia microcarpa (Berk. & Br.) Hoehn; Gymnocarpus microcarpus (Berk. & Br.) Overeem; Mycena microcarpa (Berk. & Br.) Pat.; Podabrella microcarpa (Berk. & Br.) Singer;