Juvey Mavéric Wawa
Other projects
10 May 2023
Contribution of Mycological Data to assess the Conservation Value of the National Nouabalé-Ndoki Park (NNNP) and its Surroundings
Commercially harvested fruiting bodies of Cantharellus have been estimated to be worth US $1.67 billion/year on the world market (Watling, 1997). They form an ectomycorrhizal relationship with fine roots of trees which is essential for the survival and productivity of both the fungus and the plant (Pilz et al., 2003; Smith & Read, 2008).
ICPC Cantharellus bifurcates nov. prov in forest Gilbertiodendron dewevrei. ©Wawa, J.M 2023.
The genus Cantharellus is probably more diverse among macromycetes and an important source of income and food for local populations (Parent & Thoen, 1977; Boa, 2006). It has been mentioned at the top of the list of the most consumed and appreciated species in northern Congo (Ndolo Ebika et al. 2018). However, there are no studies providing details on the diversity of species occurring in the country. In addition, with logging activities in the country, understanding the diversity and distribution of Cantharellus species as well as identifying partner trees will help provide scientific data for the conservation and sustainable management of the forest. Their diversity and distribution remain unknown in Congo.
Our 1st Rufford project revealed the presence of putative new chanterelles in the forests of Makao around the Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park. Species of Cantharellus have been reported to be used by populations living around the Odzala-Kokoua National Park. Thus, this project aims to study the diversity, socio-economic importance and distribution of the genus Cantharellus in two localities around two national Parks. The results will help document and understand the diversity of the genus for sustainable management and conservation.