Uncovering Hidden Diversity: A Collaborative Fungi Survey at Pulai Trail

Received: 9 December 2024 / Accepted: 22 Feb 2025
pulai@freetreesociety.org

Abstract Fungi are of great importance in both ecology and economy. A mycological survey was conducted at Pulai Trail Community Forest to document its fungi diversity on the 17th and 24th of November 2024 by a group of experts and enthusiasts organized by the Malaysian Nature Society Selangor Branch Mycology Special Interest Group (MNSSB Mycology SIG) and the Free Tree Society. The observations were uploaded and documented to the iNaturalist platform, namely the Pulai Trail MycoBlitz project. The data showed that the fungi and other species found could benefit local communities that call Pulai Trail home when more comprehensive studies are conducted.

Introduction

Pulai Trail Community Forest (Pulai Trail) is 6 hectares of forested wilderness in Bukit Persekutuan, Kuala Lumpur. It is one of the last remaining green spaces in the metropolis, hidden with biodiversity waiting to be explored. To date, there is no comprehensive mycological survey in the area, and therefore, its fungi diversity is yet to be known.

On November 17th and 24th, 2024, the Malaysian Nature Society Selangor Branch Mycology Special Interest Group (MNSSB Mycology Group) conducted a two-day fungi survey at the forest with trail guidance from the Free Tree Society. The survey was led by Loon Yit Hong and five members that consisted of fungi enthusiasts and citizen scientists. The team explored the main access trails, Pulai Loop 1 and 2 Trails, which covered a total distance of 1.2 kilometers.

The survey aims to document the fungal diversity in the forest and understand its ecology and economic value, which may benefit local communities in Bukit Persekutuan.

Pulai Trail Mycology Survey Team: MNSSB Mycology Group Leader Loon Yit Hong (2^nd from the right),
President of the Free Tree Society, Madam Carolyn Lau (3^rd from the right) and volunteers.

Material and Method

Survey Area and Data Collection

The survey area was conducted along the main access trails, Pulai Loop 1 and Pulai Loop 2. The two-day survey was conducted on November 17th and 24th, 2024, for two consecutive weeks during the wet rainy season in Selangor, Peninsular Malaysia.   

Information about the fungi (including identification, photos, coordinates, size measurements, description, and ecology) was documented and uploaded to the iNaturalist platform, namely the Pulai Trail Mycoblitz project. Further accurate identification is verified by mycologist¹ and expert².

Results and Discussions

Despite surveying the area in a limited period of time, we made 172 observations and confidently recorded 54 different species of fungi, with more still to be identified.

Pulai Trail Survey Map with observations indicated in the iNaturalist project, Pulai Trail Mycoblitz.

Before our survey, Pulai Trail had only 43 observations of fungi on the iNaturalist platform (https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/pulai-trail-mycoblitz), representing 18 species from 13 observers. Thanks to our group’s efforts, this number has now grown to 203 observations and 51 species (with many more still to be uploaded). The findings from this survey provide a snapshot of the incredible fungal diversity at Pulai Trail.

Volunteers from the MNSSB Mycology Group surveying the Pulai Trail

Survey Summary: 172 observations with 50 species of Fungi and 4 species of Protozoans are recorded.

Recorded Families, Genera, and Species

Our findings encompass a wide range of fungal families and genera as summarized in the following table.

Survey Summary: List of Recorded Families, Orders, Genera, and Species.

Ethnomycology of Pulai Trail Fungi

Ethnomycology bridges cultural practices and the ecological significance of fungi, illustrating their roles in local traditions, cuisine, and medicine. Below, we explore the cultural and ethnomycological relevance of key fungi identified during the Pulai Trail survey.

Trichaleurina javanica (Elephant’s Foot)

In different parts of Malaysia, it carries a variety of local names. In Sabah, it is referred to as "Mata Rusa" (deer eyes) by the Dusun people, while in Sarawak, it is known as "Mata Kerbau" (buffalo eyes). It is not only culturally significant but also valued as a marketable species, where it is consumed and prized for its unique texture and potential health benefits.

In Madagascar, T. javanica is known among the Betsimisarakas people as "Ranomatonantibary," meaning "tears of an old woman." The copious gel produced by this fungus has been traditionally used to treat ophthalmia (inflammation of the eyes), showcasing its ethnomedicinal significance (Iturriaga et al., 2021).

The diversity of names and uses for T. javanica highlights its cultural importance across regions. While it is not widely consumed in all areas where it is found, its unique appearance, market value, and potential health benefits suggest it has underexplored uses in both ethnomedicine and mycological research. Its distribution and traditional applications make it a notable species for further study, both for its ecological role and its cultural value.

Trichaleurina javanica / Elephant’s Foot
(Photos by: Loon Yit Hong)

Schizophyllum commune (Splitgill Mushroom / Kulat Sisir)

●     Cultural Importance: Schizophyllum commune is a cornerstone of Malaysian ethnomycology. Known as "kulat sisir" (comb fungus), it is recognized for its medicinal and culinary uses among various indigenous communities. Indigenous groups such as the Jakun in Johor and Temuan in Selangor use it to treat respiratory conditions and for its anti-aging properties (Ayu et al., 2019; Foo et al., 2018; Samsudin & Abdullah, 2019).

●   Medicinal Properties: Modern studies reveal that S. commune contains polysaccharides with immune-modulating effects, offering potential in cancer therapy. It is also studied for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties (Samsudin & Abdullah, 2019).

●   Economic Value: The fungus has potential as a sustainable, low-cost source of protein and micronutrients, comparable to commercial mushrooms. It is occasionally sold in local markets and used in soups and stir-fries (Ayu et al., 2019; Foo et al., 2018; Samsudin & Abdullah, 2019).

Schizophyllum commune / Splitgill Mushroom (Kulat Sisir)
(Photos by: Khor Hong Beng)

Cookeina spp. (Cup Fungus)

●   Cup fungi such as Cookeina spp. are referred to as "kulat mangkuk" (bowl fungus) and are occasionally collected for their bright, colorful appearance or as minor culinary items. Villagers in Sabah and Sarawak reportedly use related species as garnish or in soups (Abdullah & Rusea, 2009; Foo et al., 2018).

●  Ecological Note: This species typically grows on decaying wood in moist environments, highlighting its role in nutrient cycling within forest ecosystems (Abdullah & Rusea, 2009).

Cookeina spp. / Cup Fungus
(Photos by: Jacqueline Low and Loon Yit Hong)

Microporus xanthopus

●   Medicinal Uses: This vibrant bracket fungus is valued for its anti-aging properties among indigenous communities. The Jakun people have used it as a remedy for breast cancer and birth control. Its traditional applications highlight the need for biochemical studies to validate these uses (Ayu et al., 2019; Foo et al., 2018).

●     Aesthetic and Decorative Use: Beyond medicine, its bright yellow hues make it a potential candidate for ornamental or artistic purposes (Foo et al., 2018).

Microporus xanthopus (Photos by: Loon Yit Hong)

Ganoderma spp.

●   Medicinal Significance: Although not recorded directly in the Pulai Trail survey, Ganoderma spp., particularly Ganoderma lucidum (lingzhi), is integral to Malaysian ethnomedicine. Used in powdered or decoction forms, it is reputed for anti-cancer, anti-tumor, and immune-boosting properties (Foo et al., 2018; Samsudin & Abdullah, 2019).

●  Cultural Connection: Revered in Chinese and indigenous Malaysian traditions, Ganoderma represents longevity and health, often consumed as herbal tea or supplement (Foo et al., 2018).

Ganoderma sp. (Photos by: Jacqueline Low)

Auricularia sp. (Wood Ear Mushrooms)

●    Culinary Staple: Known as "kulat korong" in Malaysia, Auricularia spp. is widely consumed, often in soups or stir-fries. Its gelatinous texture and mild flavor make it versatile in Malaysian cuisine (Foo et al., 2018; Samsudin & Abdullah, 2019).

●  Medicinal Benefits: Wood ear mushrooms are traditionally used to treat hypertension and improve cardiovascular health. They contain bioactive compounds that aid in blood thinning and cholesterol reduction (Samsudin & Abdullah, 2019).

Auricularia sp. / Wood Ear Mushrooms
(Photos by: Jacqueline Low)

Xylaria sp.

●      Traditional Uses: Known for its tough, woody texture, Xylaria sp. is not typically consumed but is valued in indigenous folklore for its unique morphology, which resembles burnt matchsticks (Samsudin & Abdullah, 2019).

●      Ecological Insights: As a saprobe, it decomposes deadwood, enriching the soil and promoting forest regeneration (Samsudin & Abdullah, 2019).

Xylaria sp.
(Photos by: Loon Yit Hong)

Termitomyces spp.

The genus Termitomyces R. Heim is a paleotropical and edible mushroom classified under the family Lyophyllaceae (Basidiomycota). The genus forms an obligate symbiotic or mutualistic association with the fungus-feeding termites.

In Malaysia, Termitomyces spp. is locally known as “Cendawan busut”, “Cendawan melukut”, “Cendawan susu pelanduk”, “Cendawan anai-anai”, “Cendawan guruh”, “Kulat tahun”, “Cendawan Tali” or “Kulat Tahun” (Change et. al. 2004, Azlina et. al. 2012, 2013). Species that have been reported found in Peninsular Malaysia: Termitomyces clypeatus, T. entolomoides, T. heimii, T. eurhizus, T. microcarpus, T. aurantiacus, T. radicatus and T. striatus. (Pegler et. al., 1994, Turnbull et. al., 1999, Siddiquee et al. 2015). Recently, a new species was discovered in Sabah (Jaya Seelan et al., 2020).

Termitomyces sp.
(Photos by: Loon Yit Hong)

Tremella fuciformis (Snow Fungus / White Jelly Fungus)

Tremella fuciformis, commonly known as Snow Fungus or White Jelly Fungus, is reportedly consumed by the Sabah indigenous population. It is locally called “Kulat Jeli putih.”  The information on culinary and wild mushroom practices was mostly received from elderly people and passed on to the younger generations (Foo et al., 2018).

It is one of the most studied mushrooms that are reported to have medicinal properties such as skin nourishment, anti-aging, cholesterol-lowering, neurological protection (Shahrajabian et al., 2017), anti-inflammatory (Sassy & Kwanchanok, 2024), and more.

The mushroom is also used in pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications (Sasikala et al., 2023). The researcher concluded that its extract is a potential candidate for skin whitening formulations and warrants further studies. This formulation is a safer alternative to synthetic whitening formulations due to the usage of fully natural ingredients.

Tremella fuciformis (Snow Fungus / White Jelly Fungus)
(Photos by: Loon Yit Hong)

Pathogenic and Parasitic Fungi of Pulai Trail Fungi

Most pathogenic and parasitic fungi could harm their hosts by destroying their tissues and deriving nutrients from them. The pathogenic fungi cause a disease, whereas the parasitic fungi usually does not. Both fungi were identified and recorded during the Pulai Trail survey.

Rigidoporus microporus

Rigidoporus microporus is a well-known fungal pathogen, causing white root disease on more than 100 different tree species. The greatest loss caused by this pathogen was recorded in rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis) plantations (Nandris et al., 1987). Pulai Trail is a former rubber tree plantation and it is unsurprising to find the pathogenic fungi during the survey. However, it is unknown if the disease started to infect other non-rubber trees and caused harm to them. It is alarming that we have found the pathogen is infecting some young trees on our survey.

It is suggested that forestry experts do a more comprehensive survey to assess the risk of tree mortality from the pathogenic diseases at Pulai Trail.

Rigidoporus microporus on an unknown tree host at Pulai Trail.
(Photos by: Loon Yit Hong)

Rigidoporus microporus on a young unknown tree host at Pulai Trail. 
Risk assessment is required to evaluate the pathogen infections on trees at the forest. (Photos by: Loon Yit Hong)

Spinellus fusiger (Bonnet Mold)

Spinellus fusiger is the most common and widespread of the parasitic fungi seen on Mycena (Bonnet mushrooms) found on decaying wood or leaf litter in moist forests. The genus Mycena and many small mushrooms with fragile caps and slender stems are perfect hosts for Spinellus fusiger, which exploits the mushroom’s surface as a base for its reproductive structures (Patrick 2024).

This parasitic relationship is fascinating because Spinellus does not typically kill the Mycena mushroom. Instead, it uses the mushroom as a stable surface and nutrient source for producing its own spores. The Spinellus hyphae (fungal threads) penetrate the mushroom’s outer tissue, drawing nutrients from it, and then grow into the characteristic sporangia-bearing filaments that cover the mushroom cap and stem (Patrick 2024).

As a result, the mushroom becomes a vessel for Spinellus fusiger’s reproductive process, continuing its lifecycle by dispersing spores across the forest floor, where they might land on other mushrooms and begin the cycle again. While the Mycena mushroom may appear decomposed or weakened by this interaction, it often survives the parasitism long enough to complete its own reproductive cycle, spreading its own spores as well (Patrick 2024).

Spinellus fusiger on a Mycena sp. mushroom.
(Photos by: Loon Yit Hong)

Entomophthorales (Insect Destroyer)

The Entomophthorales (Insect Destroyer) are an order of mainly entomogenous fungi. They are usually associated with Diptera, although some are pathogens of other arthropods, nematodes, and tardigrades, amongst others (Kirk & Voigt, 2014).

The typical life cycle of the entomopathogenic species of Entomophthorales involves the invasion of the host by germ hyphae produced by adhesive spores (conidia), which are airborne. The fungus invades the abdomen of the host. Following its death, sporophores are produced, typically between the individual segments of the abdomen, where a new crop of forcibly discharged spores is produced. Resting bodies are often produced within the host, and the primary conidia also have the ability to produce typically smaller secondary conidia, usually of the same form or as morphologically distinct microconidia (Kirk & Voigt, 2014).

Entomophthorales are studied as a potential biological control of pest insects in agriculture (Barta & Cagáň, 2006). They are valuable agents to control the specific insect population as most of the species are closely host-specific, and they pose no threat to non-target organisms.

A common ant was found infected with the pathogenic fungi during the Pulai Trail survey.

Entomophthorales on an ant host. (Photos by: Loon Yit Hong)

Ectomycorrhizal Fungi of Pulai Trail

Ectomycorrhizal fungi are a type of fungi that form a symbiotic relationship with the roots of various plant species. This relationship is important for the ecosystem because it helps plants absorb water and nutrients, and the fungi obtain carbohydrates in return.

It is surprising that almost all the fungi found are ascomycetes and basidiomycetes that are saprophytic and parasitic. These include decomposers that grow on fallen trees, branches, and leaf litter. The largest group of fungi that play an important role in organic matter decomposition and nutrition recycling.

The ectomycorrhizal fungi that are not spotted in our survey could be due to not entering their fruiting season yet. A long-term six-year study by Lee et al. 2002 suggested that the fruiting peak season of the mycorrhizae is in February-March and August-September. It could also be because the forest was a former rubber plantation estate where the mycorrhizae required a longer time period to establish.

This fact requires further study by our team.

Conclusions

The survey has documented rich fungi diversity in the forest despite surveying in a short period of time. The fungi have high ecological and economic value and may benefit local communities in Bukit Persekutuan. The presence of pathogenic fungi such as Rigidoporus microporus could be a threat to other plants in the forest if left unchecked. Further study is required to survey and document the presence of ectomycorrhizal fungi in the Pulai Trail forest.

 

Acknowledgement

Loon Yit Hong (Event Organizer and MNSSB Lead Coordinator)
Carolyn Lau (President and General Manager of Free Tree Society)
¹Luca Pilia (Mycologist)
²Joseph Pallante (Amateur Mycologist)
Malaysian Nature Society Selangor Branch (MNSSB)
Event volunteers: Jacqueline Low, Lenny Wong, Kho Wui Kiong, Khor Hong Beng, and Chan Chee Keong.

Sponsor

Free Tree Society under the GEF Small Grants Programme (SGP) 07, 
Project Titled: “RUGS, Pulai Trail: Advocacy and Capacity Building for Urban Forest Protection”.

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