Two Indigenous Psychedelic Mushrooms Discovered in Southern Africa by Citizen Scientists

In a groundbreaking development, researchers from Stellenbosch University have identified two new indigenous psychedelic mushroom species in southern Africa, spotlighting the region’s rich and often underappreciated biological diversity. These findings were recently published in a study in the journal Mycologia, presenting the scientific community with the newly named species, Psilocybe ingeli and Psilocybe maluti.

The discovery of Psilocybe ingeli, by citizen mycologist Talan Moult, occurred in KwaZulu-Natal’s pasturelands, while Psilocybe maluti was spotted on a Free State small holding by Daniella Mulder, who reached out to Andrew Killian, a leading figure in South African mycology, for identification. Both discoveries were further confirmed through DNA sequencing and analysis by Breyten van der Merwe at Prof. Karin Jacobs's lab at the Department of Microbiology, SU.

Beyond expanding the catalogue of psychedelic mushroom species—which now includes a total of six species indigenous to Africa—this research also shines light on the cultural significance of these species. The study documents the traditional use of P. maluti by Basotho healers in Lesotho, marking a rare recorded instance of hallucinogenic mushrooms in African traditional healing. Citizen mycologist Cullen Taylor Clark, together with Mosotho healer Mamosebetsi Sethathi, brought attention to the use of P. maluti, known locally as koae-ea-lekhoaba.

The success of these discoveries emphasizes the valuable role played by citizen scientists in uncovering mycological treasures and pushing the boundaries of understanding within the field of African mycology. Breyten van der Merwe and Prof. Karin Jacobs advocate for more collaboration with mushroom enthusiasts across Africa. They believe that such partnerships are crucial for exploring and documenting a continent with vast mycological diversity and deep-rooted mycophilia.

The findings of Psilocybe ingeli and Psilocybe maluti are not only scientifically notable but underline the necessity for increased participation by citizen scientists to map the continent's fungal landscape and preserve its ecological wealth. Their inclusion in mycological research can open unprecedented doors for discovering new species and understanding the ecological and cultural ties that these species have with the regions they inhabit.