Yartsagunbu: transforming people's livelihoods in the Western Himalaya

A significant decline in the abundance of caterpillar fungus (Ophiocordyceps sinensis), known as yartsagunbu, threatens local livelihoods and biodiversity conservation efforts in the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve. This study reveals that while the fungus contributes approximately 74% to household cash income in 32 villages of Dhauliganga Valley, its annual per capita harvest has dropped by 54 pieces between 2011–2015 due to competition and reduced species abundance. Researchers analyzed trade and harvest patterns, highlighting the economic dependence on this resource while warning of potential ecological damage from unsustainable extraction practices. The findings underscore the urgent need for integrated governance strategies that balance livelihood security with biodiversity conservation in UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Yadav, P. K., Saha, S., Mishra, A. K., Kapoor, M., Kaneria, M., Kaneria, M., Dasgupta, S., & Shrestha, U. B. (2018). Yartsagunbu: transforming people’s livelihoods in the Western Himalaya. Oryx, 53(2), 247–255. https://doi.org/10.1017/s0030605318000674