Exploring Edible Mushrooms in Ethiopian Forests: An Insight for Ecological Resilience and Climate Change Adaptation
摘要
Mushrooms are symbolic of the conservation and health of terrestrial ecosystems despite being impacted by habitat degradation. In Ethiopian forests, the potential and importance of edible mushrooms are inadequately researched. In this chapter, we aim to provide a synthesis of knowledge on edible mushroom species that have been explored to date in Ethiopian forests and their contribution to ecological resilience and climate change adaptation. From a review of the literature, we have recorded a total of 152 edible mushrooms, spanning 39 families. Among these, Agaricaceae is the most prominent with 45 species, followed by Tricholomataceae with 13 species. These species provide food and income for rural people and also contribute to ecosystem services in terms of enhancing the productivity of forest ecosystems. However, deforestation and loss of habitats coupled with climate change are threatening the edible mushroom species in Ethiopia. Integrating a mosaic landscape and sustainable forest management practices that encourage mushroom co-production can be instrumental in conserving forests, preserving biodiversity, and supplying both wood and non-wood forest products. This chapter enhances the knowledge of Ethiopian mushroom resources and their socio-ecological importance, while also advocating for their conservation and advancement in the context of climate change.