Description
Discover a piece of mycological history with the Psilocybe ingeli Isolated Spore Syringe—a newly identified species that has forever changed our understanding of African fungal biodiversity. Found in the pastoral landscapes of KwaZulu-Natal in 2023, this remarkable strain represents one of only six known indigenous Psilocybe species on the African continent, offering researchers unprecedented access to fresh genetic material from this groundbreaking discovery.
The Historic Discovery of Psilocybe ingeli
The story of Psilocybe ingeli began in 2023 when citizen mycologist Talan Moult encountered an unusual specimen growing in pastureland in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The mushroom's distinctive size and cap characteristics didn't align with any known South African species, prompting scientific investigation at Stellenbosch University's Department of Microbiology.
DNA sequencing and genomic analysis conducted by researcher Breyten van der Merwe confirmed what the morphological evidence suggested—this was an entirely new species. The formal description, published in the prestigious journal Mycologia, established P. ingeli as a scientifically recognized species, bringing the total number of known African Psilocybe species to six out of approximately 140 described worldwide.
Distinctive Scientific Characteristics
Geographic Origin: KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa—pastoral grasslands
Habitat Preference: Coprophilous growth on bovine substrates in natural pasture settings
Morphological Features: Unique cap and stem characteristics distinguishing it from related species
Genetic Markers: Distinct DNA sequences in key genomic regions separating it from similar taxa
Discovery Status: Formally described in 2024 through peer-reviewed scientific publication
Ready to explore this historic strain? Access our Complete P. ingeli Research Guide for detailed morphological data and microscopy protocols.
Research Applications and Scientific Significance
As one of the most recently discovered Psilocybe species, P. ingeli offers unique research opportunities for mycologists studying African biodiversity, evolutionary relationships, and biogeographic patterns. The strain provides fresh genetic material for phylogenetic studies, comparative genomics, and morphological research that could reveal new insights into the evolution and distribution of psychoactive fungi across the African continent.
The discovery of P. ingeli highlights the critical role of citizen science in mycological research and underscores the vast unexplored fungal diversity remaining in Africa. For educational institutions and research programs focusing on biodiversity, taxonomy, or African mycology, this strain represents an invaluable addition to specimen collections and research protocols.
Research Features and Applications
Taxonomic Studies: Fresh material for morphological and anatomical characterization
Phylogenetic Research: DNA sequencing and evolutionary relationship studies
Biogeographic Analysis: Distribution patterns and habitat correlation studies
Comparative Mycology: Morphological comparisons with related African species
Citizen Science: Collaborative research opportunities with mycological communities
Educational Value: Teaching material for taxonomy and biodiversity courses
Product Specifications
Classification: Isolated Spore Syringe
Species: Psilocybe ingeli van der Merwe et al.
Volume: 10cc sterile solution
Type Locality: KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Discovery Year: 2023
Purpose: Microscopy and taxonomic research
Important Legal Notice
Atlas Spores provides these specimens exclusively for legal microscopy, taxonomic research, and educational purposes. Our spore syringes contain no active compounds and are intended solely for scientific study. Purchasers assume full responsibility for understanding and complying with all applicable local, state, and federal regulations governing these materials.
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