Edible Macromycetes of Chihuahua. Diversity and Nutritional Properties

Abstract

Chihuahua (México) has a forest area of 30%, with plant communities dominated by pine and oak species, which are economically exploited for their timber quality. Almost 500 species of macroscopic fungi grow in these areas, which are ecologically important for maintain a healthy ecosystem due to its symbiotic, parasitic, or saprophytic relationships with other organism and abiotic components. These are also an important non-timber resource for local communities because some macromycetes are considered edible for its nutritious value or alleged medicinal properties. Currently, studies on nutritional analysis, antioxidant activity and antimicrobial capacity has generated useful and beneficial knowledge to pro mote its widely consumption and potential benefits on health and diet. The present study aims to identify the species of macromycetes fungi from temperate forests in the state of Chihuahua and relate it to relevant information regarding the nutritional and functional properties that allow its consumption and use.