Current Advances in Plant Science, Molecular Biology and Health Sector

Ophiocordyceps sinensis, commonly known as Caterpillar fungus, is a medicinal fungus with significant nutritional and utilisation value. Ophiocordyceps belongs to the genus Ophiocordyceps under the family Ophiocordycipitaceae (Division: Ascomycota; Order: Hypocreales). The genus Ophiocordyceps was first scientifically described by British mycologist Tom Petch in 1931. It includes approximately 140 species that parasitise insects. It is the most expensive fungus in the world and is widely distributed in upper hilly regions of the Himalaya in China, Tibet, Nepal, Sikkim, Bhutan and India. This fungus is very important and widely used in China in Traditional Medicine. The dried club-shaped fruiting body with the larva has a great medicinal value, particularly in strengthening lungs and kidneys, as well as to increase energy and vitality. It is a peculiar insect pathogenic fungus with a larva of moths at the base and the fruiting body of the fungus at the top. The life cycle of this fungus is also very interesting. The wide use of this fungus in Traditional Chinese Medicine of China has made it the fungus as costliest of the world. The characteristics and medicinal importance of the fungus in general have been discussed before going to the study of caterpillar fungus. The morphology, life cycle, harvesting, medicinal importance, and trade of Caterpillar Fungus have been elaborated. The overharvesting of this Caterpillar fungus by collectors is affecting the ecosystem of the alpine regions of the Himalaya, leading to the threat of many endangered plant and animal species of that area. Therefore, the conservation of this rare fungus is necessary by regulating harvest and taking surveillance to check cross-border activity.