In southern Africa, in grassland areas, researchers have found a new type of fungus belonging to the Psilocybe group. These fungi often grow in nature, especially in places where the soil is moist and rich after rainfall.
Scientists studied the fungus by analysing its DNA, which is like a “nature identity card” that shows how living things are related. Through this analysis, they discovered that this fungus belongs to an ancient Psilocybe lineage, and that key evolutionary changes in this group may have started in Africa.
This suggests that Africa may have played an important role in the very early history of these fungi, long before they spread to other parts of the world.
Researchers say this discovery helps improve understanding of biodiversity and shows that African nature still holds many secrets waiting to be explored.
