Himalayan Viagra

IN NEWS:

• Overharvesting has resulted in pushing the fungus known as ‘Himalayan viagra’ into vulnerable category.

ABOUT THE FUNGUS:

• Ophiocordyceps sinensis, often called the world’s costliest fungus is also known as Himalayan Viagra.
• It has now entered the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species in the ‘vulnerable’ category.
• It is known for its aphrodisiac and rejuvenation properties.
• It has a caterpillar-like appearance and is endemic to the Himalayan and Tibetan plateau and is found in China, Bhutan, Nepal and India.

PRELIMS QUESTION”

Q. A particular type of fungi named Ophiocordyceps sinensis was recently in news. It is known for its aphrodisiac and rejuvenation properties. IUCN has placed it in vulnerable category in its red list. The natural ecosystem of this species is:

1. Dry deciduous forest of central India
2. Himalayan ecosystem
3. Western Ghats Region
4. Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Answer to Prelims question