Hongo del coco (Phlebopus bruchii)

Mohamed bin Zayed Species project number 242536345

Conservation actions for the highly endemic and critically endangered “Coco mushroom” (Phlebopus bruchii) from the Sierras of central Argentina

 

Following the IUCN’s recommendations for this species, we set out to understand and protect it through several key actions. First, we’ll map its current distribution by combining field sampling with ecological modeling and fine-tuning those predictions directly in the field. To better understand its habitat, we’ll collect detailed information about both the surrounding plant composition and structure and the soil characteristics where it grows. At the same time, we’ll start building a culture collection to preserve the species ex situ, support research on characteristics and requirements of its cultivation, and future reintroduction efforts. We also want to explore how the fungus lives—its nutritional needs and strategies for survival. Based on this, we’ll develop indoor cultivation techniques that could eventually be shared with local communities. As we move forward, we’ll assess whether reintroduction into natural environments is viable. Throughout the project, we’re committed to sharing our findings not just with scientists, but also with the broader public. Our work will focus on field expeditions during two fruiting seasons (since the Coco Mushroom is a rare summer species, fruiting between December and February—unusual for fungi, which mostly appear in autumn). During these expeditions, we’ll collect specimens, record detailed ecological data, and isolate fungal strains, which will later be used for further research and outreach efforts.