MANCHERIAL – A rare species of fungus, the Purple Pinwheel fungi (Marasmius haematocephalus), has been recorded in Telangana for the first time, marking a significant discovery for the state’s biodiversity. The find was made by wildlife researcher Dr. Venkatesh Anagandhula in the Kawal Tiger Reserve (KTR).
Dr. Anagandhula, who is also a regional coordinator for the Hyderabad Tiger Conservation Society (HyTiCoS), spotted the tiny, scarlet-colored mushroom during a fungal data collection survey. This discovery highlights the rich ecological diversity of KTR, a protected forest area known for its varied flora and fauna.
About the Purple Pinwheel Fungi
Marasmius haematocephalus is a delicate fungus characterized by its reddish to blood-red cap and a slender, wiry stem. While it is too small and tough to be edible, it plays an important ecological role in its habitat. The species is most commonly found during the rainy season, as it thrives in moist conditions.
Prior to this discovery, the Purple Pinwheel fungi had been reported in a few other Indian states, including Odisha, Karnataka, Kerala, Puducherry, and Assam. Its presence in Telangana adds to the known geographical distribution of the species and underscores the need for continued documentation of lesser-known organisms in India’s forests.
The genus Marasmius was first described in 1838. The name comes from the Greek word marasmos, meaning “withered,” which refers to the unique ability of many species in this genus to dry out and later revive when exposed to moisture.