Elusive fungus found The big puma fungus (Austroomphaliaster nahuelbutensis) was first documented in Chile in 1988. As the only species in its genus, the big puma fungus is special — and incredibly rare, with its gray-brown colors a natural camouflage in the forest foliage. Thanks to Re:wild’s Search for Lost Species, the “world’s most wanted” lost fungi was rediscovered in May 2023. Documenting mycology: In the early 1980s, Chilean mycologist Norberto Garrido documented over 200 fungi species in the mountainous forests of southern Chile. Named for the Nahuelbuta mountain range — “big puma range” in the local Mapudungun language — the big puma mushroom was not seen again for 36 years. Retracing steps: In 2023, a team led by the Fungi Foundation and Fundación Nahuelbuta retraced Norberto Garrido’s steps through the Nahuelbuta mountains at the exact same time of year. On the last day of their week-long expedition, two local participants located the big puma mushroom blending in among the leaves. DNA analysis by Fungi Foundation’s fungarium later confirmed the mushroom’s identity. Community collaboration: Cooperation between scientists and local communities is vital to protecting fungal diversity. Rediscovering the big puma mushroom was a group effort of multiple organizations, mycologists, and local search parties all working in the right place at the right time. Considering that only 10% of the world’s fungal species are documented, how many more can we discover before they’re gone? Read more.