Termitomyces schimperi

Termitomyces schimperi

Termitomyces schimperi is a predominantly with the termite Macrotermes natalensis socialized agaric. In the majority of fungus is of the Namibian Herero and Ovambo tribes as " Omajowa " means ( other spellings: " Omajova " or " Omayova "). The Deutschnamibianer usually call him simply " termite mushroom".

Features

The hat has unopened the " size of a man's fist ." It shields up quickly and then measures 15-28 cm in width. Imposing pieces reach a diameter of up to 40 cm. The hat and the thick, soft scales are white and can be colored by the earth of termite mound yellowish to reddish- brown. The scales are under its outermost layer mostly undyed white. The root-like extension of the stem base ( Pseudorhiza ) has its origin in the termite nest and can reach a length of about 90 cm. The lower, narrower part of the Pseudorhiza has a denser consistency than the aboveground part.

Ecology and phenology

Termitomyces schimperi not appear at all termite mounds. The fungus is found only on the high hills in the central and northern Namibia, where the average rainfall is 350 mm or more. These hills are often 4-5 m high and slope in the top always points north.

The species is detected by hills of the termite Macrotermes natalensis, further details refer to Macrotermes subhyalinus, Odontotermes patruus and possibly other Termitenartenp.

Termite fungi usually show up after the einweichenden rain of 12 mm or more in the spring, mainly in the main rainy season from January to March. The fruiting bodies grow in clusters of 5-10 copies around the lower regions of the termite mounds and grow about 50 cm above the ground. On a single hill up to 50 fruiting bodies have been observed before. Fruiting bodies can grow on the same termite mound in several years.

Dissemination

In Namibia occurrence of termites fungus from the areas around Omaruru, Okahandja, Otjiwarongo, Grootfontein, Tsumkwe the east of Windhoek and the southern part of Etosha National Park are known.

Importance

Mushroom

Omajowa are not bred. When it rained, the fruiting bodies must be harvested early, as they are eaten by many animals such as warthogs. During the season the mushrooms are sold in supermarkets and on roadsides. The termite mushrooms will freeze well and are often preserved in this way for future consumption. As a food of termites fungus is usually fried. Also use as a garnish in soups, in risotto and sauces is possible. Due to its considerable size, the fungus is sometimes made ​​even as a steak by locals.

Philately

The NamPost issued in 1999 a 5.50 - N $ stamp, on which a single Ejova fruiting bodies is shown.

Others

The fungus is considered as a symbol of growth and prosperity.