Tricholoma fulvocastaneum, a rare wild mushroom species, has been discovered in the Qingyuan sector of the Baishanzu National Park candidate area, highlighting the region's rich biodiversity and sound ecological conditions.

Ranger Cai Huanman made the discovery in August during his routine patrol of the dense mountain forests and sent samples for expert identification. He had long heard about a wild fungus resembling matsutake in the area but had never encountered it until this year.

Locally called "taro mushroom" because of its appearance, the fungus is edible but had drawn little attention because of its rarity. Measuring about 16 centimeters in height, with a cap diameter of about 14 cm and weighing around 144 grams, the specimen features a rounded, hemispherical cap in uniform chestnut brown and a stout, straight stipe.

Expert Lin Wenfei from the Chinese Mycological Society identified it as Tricholoma fulvocastaneum, a species that only thrives in pristine environments with excellent water, soil, vegetation, and air conditions.

The discovery adds a new record to the local fungal species library, filling a gap in rare mushroom monitoring in the Qingyuan sector, part of the ecological barrier in southwestern Zhejiang, which boasts high forest coverage and well-preserved ecosystems.

Local staff have stepped up biodiversity protection, routine patrols, and ecological monitoring, and will continue conservation efforts and regular surveys to safeguard rare species and sustain ecological values.