Diversity and Biotopes of Edible Fungi in Ecological Zone II of Togo

Background and Objective: Mushrooms are forest resources commonly used by local populations. This study contributes to the knowledge of the diversity of edible and medicinal wild mushrooms. This study aims to assess the diversity and distribution of edible fungi across various biotopes in Ecological Zone II of Togo. Materials and Methods: A systematic collection of fungi was carried out in the plant formations of Ecological Zone II of Togo. A macroscopic and microscopic description was made of each species to identify them. A Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was used to discriminate between the different species based on their biotopes at the 5% threshold. Results: Ninety-five edible mushrooms were identified. They are divided into eighteen genera and fifteen families. The most represented families were: Russulaceae (52 species), Amanitaceae (09 species), Cantharellaceae (09 species) and Lyophyllaceae (08 species). Some species were collected in Forests and Savannahs on five different substrates. Others were collected in fields and fallow land on four different substrates. Conclusion: Togo’s Ecological Zone II is therefore a home to important edible and medicinal fungal species, most of which are not yet used in the agri-food and pharmaceutical industries.