On the Cordyceps Research in Vietnam

Cordyceps occurring in natural ecosystems like primary forests and nature reserves in Vietnam are explored and developed by scientists. Based on surveys and research in different ecosystems, it has been recorded that from 2001 onwards, there are a diverse number of insect-dependent fungi. Among the 158 Cordyceps samples collected, 13 species were identified. The results of the survey have created a rich source of Cordyceps stock for further research. So far, eight strains of fungi have been successfully isolated and preserved for future research. In addition to the cultivation of Cordyceps militaris, C. sinensis, and C. sphecocephala, the extraction and isolation of bioactive metabolites from other entomopathogenic fungi (e.g., Cordyceps nutans) have been attempted to develop biopesticides for agriculture and forestry. However, there have been no or meagre published studies on successful in vitro cultivation of mycelium and fruit bodies.