Africa, despite its biological richness, has long been a little-studied area for psilocybin fungi. Recent studies have shown that the continent is home to the six species fungi of the genus Psilocybe, which are native to the region. Here is a list of them, along with information on where they occur and their characteristics:
1. Psilocybe natalensis - Natalian coot
- Location: South Africa, KwaZulu-Natal province.
- Description: A fungus similar to Psilocybe cubensis, but more resistant to harsh environmental conditions. It grows on fertilizer and soil rich in decaying organic matter.
- Characteristics: It has a golden brown cap, turning blue when damaged. Known for its high psilocybin content.
2. Psilocybe ingeli
- Location: Ingeli Forests, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
- Description: Discovered in 2023 by Talan Moult. It grows in pastures enriched with animal manure.
- Characteristics: The cap is light brown, 1-3 cm in diameter, turning blue in areas of damage. The blades are dense, darkening with age.
3. Psilocybe maluti
- Location: Maluti Mountains in Lesotho and Free State, South Africa.
- Description: Identified in 2021. Grows on cattle manure, especially in cooler, mountainous regions.
- Significance: Used in spiritual practices by traditional Basotho healers.
- Characteristics: Golden cap with a tendency to bluish, fibrous stem with a movable ring.
4. Psilocybe transkei
- Location: Transkei region in South Africa.
- Description: One of the first Psilocybe species discovered in Africa. It grows on animal feces in warm and humid conditions.
- Characteristics: The cap is light brown, taking on lighter shades over time, 2-4 cm in diameter. Prized for its intense psychoactive effect.
5. Psilocybe mairei
- Location: North Africa, Morocco and Algeria regions.
- Description: It is found in moist, moss-covered areas of the Atlas Mountains. Known for its high content of psychoactive alkaloids.
- Characteristics: Irregularly shaped hat with a whitish tarnish. Rarely found.
6. Psilocybe subtropicalis
- Location: Sub-tropical regions of Africa, especially the east coast.
- Description: A poorly understood species, recorded in several regions. It grows in soil and on plant debris.
- Characteristics: The cap is dark brown, with a lighter center. The blades are less frequently spaced than in other species.
The importance of discoveries
These species represent the unique biodiversity of the African continent. Many of them are used by local communities in spiritual and medicinal practices. However, more research is still needed to better understand their properties and potential medicinal uses.