Quantification of cultivated edible mushrooms and wild edible mushrooms traded around Virunga National Park, in North Kivu province, Democratic Republic of Congo

A study quantifying the trade of cultivated edible mushrooms (CEM) and wild edible mushrooms (WEM) around Virunga National Park, Democratic Republic of Congo, reveals significant economic potential. While 216 respondents—growers and gatherers—were surveyed across three axes (Beni-Mutwanga, Beni-Mangina, Goma-Rutshuru, and Goma-Kitshanga-Mweso), only one CEM species, Pleurotus ostreatus, was recognized by growers. Termitomyces microcarpus dominated WEM preferences, with gatherers yielding 78 kg during the short rainy season (March–May) and 130 kg in the long season (September–January). Beyond nutritional value—including selenium, potassium, and proteins—mushrooms exhibit medicinal properties, such as anti-tumoral effects and potential benefits for Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases. The findings advocate for wild edible mushroom domestication to boost household income while supporting ViNP ecosystem conservation.

Habineza, M., Niyonsaba, S., Shalukoma, C., Dushimimana, C., Lebailly, P., Berti, F., Burny, P., & Michel, B. (2024). Quantification of cultivated edible mushrooms and wild edible mushrooms traded around Virunga National Park, in North Kivu province, Democratic Republic of Congo. African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition and Development, 24(12), 25232–25252. https://doi.org/10.18697/ajfand.137.24930