Vegetos
(An International Journal of Plant Research & Biotechnology)
Diversity and distribution of macrofungi in North-Western Himalayan region
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Research Articles | Published: 13 November, 2025
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Keywords: Macro fungi, Diversity, Edible, Non-edible, Ecosystem
Abstract
A comprehensive survey was conducted over 3 years (2022–2025) across Kangra, Mandi, and Hamirpur districts in Himachal Pradesh, North-Western Himalayas, to assess the diversity and distribution of macrofungi. A total of 119 specimens were collected from varied ecological niches, including forest litter, decaying wood, and soil substrates. Of these, 33 specimens were deposited at the Directorate of Mushroom Research, Solan, with 7 receiving accession numbers. Identified taxa encompassed both edible species (e.g., Ganoderma lucidum, Russula spp., Clitocybe nuda, Chroogomphus rutilus) and non-edible taxa (e.g., Trametes spp., Gymnopus spp.), demonstrating significant taxonomic and functional diversity. The distribution patterns correlated with environmental variables such as altitude, temperature, and substrate composition. Edible species exhibited bioactive compounds including β-glucans and polysaccharides with noted immunomodulatory and antioxidant properties, emphasizing their medicinal and nutraceutical potential. Non-edible macrofungi contributed to ecosystem functions like organic matter decomposition and nutrient cycling. This study provides essential baseline data on macrofungal biodiversity in the Himalayan region, emphasizing the need for molecular characterization and bioactivity profiling to harness their pharmaceutical and ecological benefits sustainably.
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Author Information
Department of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture, Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalya, Palampur, India