Most edible mushrooms are relatively small, but in West Africa and Zambia there is a particularly huge species that grows larger than the rest.

Termitomyces titanicus. Quite an appropriate name for such a huge species. In Zambia, where mushroom collecting is an important part of life, Termitomyces titanicus is held in especially high regard. While the world’s largest mushroom (and organism) is from the genus Armillaria and currently consumes Oregon’s 1,000 hectares, Termitomyces titanicus is the world’s largest edible mushroom, with a cap that can measure just over three feet (one meter). ). at the other side of.

Interestingly, this species of giant mushroom was unknown to Western science before 1980, despite its size and the fact that it was a common item in native markets.

This family living in Zambia bought this giant specimen on the way to Lusaka, the capital. The name Termitomyces refers to how the fungus grows inside a termite mound. Fungi of this genus have a symbiotic relationship with termites and grow on their fecal matter, decomposing the plant material as food for them. Decomposed fungal tissue is another food source for termites.

In turn, termite-associated fungi receive a constant supply of plant material, in a location with optimal temperature and moisture content for growth.

Fungi are connected to the heart of a colony of fungal-breeding termites. Image credit: Aanen and de Beer But why does the fungus grow so much? Well, for starters, it acquires a lot of resources from its mutualistic insects, as termite colonies can reach densities in the millions, with countless individuals searching for organic material to feed on. But its size is not only due to the large amount of energy it obtains: this horizontally transferred fungus must spread enough spores to be found by the right termite species. In low-production savanna ecosystems, termite mound distribution can be quite patchy. So, to ensure that it has a good chance of finding a suitable substrate, the fungus has evolved one of, if not the largest mushrooms on the planet. The larger the fungus, the more spores it produces, making it easier for initial termite collectors to find them.

Zambia is home to the world’s largest edible mushroom called Ichikolowa (Termitomyces titanicus). a mushroom feeds a family for a day. It is one more of Africa’s extravagant works of nature!
You should be looking forward to seeing and eating this. Ichikolowa grows in the rainy season, from November to February.