Guwahati, May 6: Researchers from the Central Agricultural University have recorded the occurrence of a high-value Cordyceps fungus in Arunachal Pradesh’s East Siang district, a finding being viewed as significant for both medicinal research and biodiversity studies.
The specimen was encountered during a mushroom exploration programme led by Dr Senpon Ngomle of the College of Agriculture, Pasighat.
Known globally as one of the most prized medicinal fungi, Cordyceps species are often referred to as “Himalayan gold” because of their exceptionally high commercial value and extensive use in traditional medicine, nutraceuticals and pharmaceutical research.
Researchers said the fungus produces a wide range of bioactive compounds, including cordycepin, adenosine and polysaccharides, which are associated with immunomodulatory, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiviral and antitumor properties. Scientific studies worldwide have explored their potential applications in cancer therapy, metabolic disorders, chronic inflammatory diseases and tissue repair.
What makes the East Siang occurrence particularly noteworthy is its unusual habitat. Cordyceps fungi are obligate insect-parasitic fungi typically found at altitudes above 3,000–4,000 metres in Himalayan ecosystems. The specimen recorded in East Siang, however, was found in a comparatively low-altitude environment.
“It may turn out to be either a new species or an already known taxon, but the real point to ponder is its occurrence at such a low altitude,” Dr Ngomle said.
The research team said investigations are underway to determine the exact identity of the specimen through molecular and taxonomic analysis.
According to the scientists, the finding highlights the vast but poorly documented fungal diversity of Arunachal Pradesh and underlines the need for systematic studies on medicinal mushrooms, molecular documentation, conservation biology and sustainable bioprospecting in the region.
Preliminary laboratory culturing and strain identification work has already begun at the College of Agriculture and the College of Horticulture and Forestry under the Central Agricultural University in Pasighat.
Another member of the research team, Dr Disco, said the occurrence of Cordyceps in East Siang adds a new dimension to the state’s biological wealth and reinforces its ecological significance.
The team now plans to undertake detailed molecular identification, mycological profiling and phytochemical analysis to better understand the fungus and explore its potential applications, including possibilities for sustainable cultivation and livelihood generation.
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