Man from Altai region under scrutiny for gathering Russian delicacy, the Red Book mushroom
In the online community "Mushrooms and Mushroom Pickers of the Altai Region" on Vkontakte, a heated debate is ongoing. The focus of this debate is the collection of a rare mushroom, the Sparassis crispa, which was harvested by local mycologists and foragers in the summer of 2023.
The Sparassis crispa, known for its lettuce-like shape, is a unique find in the mushroom world. However, its rarity is reflected in its listing in the regional Red Book. The collection of this mushroom is punishable by a fine, as it is under protection in the Altai region.
Some participants in the debate believe that the consequences of collecting one Sparassis crispa mushroom are exaggerated. They argue that the collected mushroom will rot and may not grow back the next year. On the other hand, ecologists involved in the debate emphasize that the disappearance of Sparassis crispa mushrooms is more related to changes in the environment than to their collection.
Another argument in the debate is that deforestation and bog draining are more significant threats to the Sparassis crispa mushroom than its collection. One participant in the debate questioned the picker's knowledge, asking why they would take the mushroom home if they didn't know what it was.
The debate underscores the complexity of balancing the protection of rare species with the needs and rights of the local community in the Altai region. Many participants in the debate are condemning the mushroom picker, while others are advocating for understanding the context of the collection.
The discussion about the harvested mushroom is a timely reminder of the tension between the protection of rare species and the rights of individuals to collect them for personal use. As the debate continues, it is hoped that a consensus can be reached that respects both the unique ecosystem of the Altai region and the local community that depends on it.
