Ethnomycological and Nutritional Analyses of Some Wild Edible Mushrooms from Western Himalayas, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (Pakistan).

Mushrooms have had a long association with humankind and have great biological and economic effects. This study aimed to record ethnomycological and nutritional analysis of some edible mushrooms from the Western Himalayas (Neelum Valley), Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan. Mushrooms from different taxonomical and ecological groups were collected and properly identified with the help of the available literature: Morchella esculenta, M. crassipes, M. elata, M. conica, Pleurotus ostreatus, Lycoperdon gemmatum, Helvella crispa, Tricholoma megnivelare, Gyrometra esculenta, Agaricus campestris, Hydnum imbricatum, and Sparassis crispa. The local communities are familiar with the morphological features, habitats, and qualities of these mushrooms. Ethnomycological data were collected through the use of a questionnaire; we found that these species have great medicinal value against different ailments. Four species (A. campestris, H. imbricatum, P. ostreatus, and S. crispa) were selected for nutritional analysis (proteins, fats, fiber, and moisture) on the basis of their frequent use in the study area. The largest amounts of protein (1.627 and 1.493 mg/mL) were found in H. imbricatum and S. crispa, respectively. The largest amount of fiber was found in P. ostreatus (14%); S. crispa contains the largest amount of fat (12.7%).

Fodder plants of some selected areas of Jhelum Valley District Muzaffarabad Azad Kashmir.

Jhelum valley is a subtropical to moist temperate region lying in the District Muzaffarabad. The present communication describes 61 species belonging to 19 families which are the source of fodder. The plants together with their local names, period of availability and other details with pertinent comments are enumerated. Results of fodder plant investigation conducted in Jhelum Valley during 2005-2006 are presented.