Scientists have discovered a new species of "magic mushrooms" in Africa

The study was published in the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences.

The new fungus is named Psilocybe ochraceocentrata because of the characteristic ochre colour in the centre of the cap. It grows on cow dung in grassy areas of southern Africa and Zimbabwe.

Details

Scientists have discovered that this species is the closest known relative of the widespread psilocybin mushroom Psilocybe cubensis.

Genetic analysis has shown that the two species shared a common ancestor about 1.5 million years ago.

This casts doubt on the common belief that Psilocybe cubensis only appeared in the Americas after Europeans introduced cattle there in the 16th century.

According to mycologist Breiten van der Merwe of Stellenbosch University, the new species was long cultivated worldwide under the names Natal Super Strength (NSS) or Transkei, without realising it was a separate biological species.

Benefits

The researchers believe the discovery could help to better understand the origin and evolution of psilocybin mushrooms.

The new genetic data can also be used in research related to mushroom biochemistry and the medicinal properties of psilocybin.

Background

Psilocybe cubensis is one of the best known psilocybin mushrooms in the world. It was first described in Cuba in 1906.

A new study suggests that the evolutionary history of these mushrooms may be much older and linked to changes in grassland ecosystems.

Source

Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences, DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2025.2270