Q. What is Roen olmi (Termitomyces species), recently seen in the news?
Answer:
Wild mushroom
Notes: Researchers in Goa have produced gold nanoparticles from the Termitomyces species, a wild mushroom widely consumed in the region. This mushroom plays a vital role in ecosystems, converting 50% of dead plant material into soil. Found on termite hills in the Western Ghats, it relies on termites for growth. Harvesting was banned in 1992 due to concerns about forest diseases, but the ban was later limited to wildlife sanctuaries and government-owned protected forests, emphasizing potential ecological risks.