Ophiocordyceps sinensis fungus faces extinction due to high demand

Ophiocordyceps sinensis, a fungus that parasitizes moth larvae, is highly valued in traditional Chinese and Tibetan medicine for its purported strengthening properties. Growing in the high altitudes of the Himalayas and the Tibetan Plateau, the fungus can command prices exceeding $150 per gram, with some market estimates reaching significantly higher values.

Due to intense demand that has surged since the 1990s, the species was listed on the IUCN Red List as endangered in 2020, following a population decline of at least 30 percent over 15 years. Because natural specimens are difficult to cultivate in laboratories, the market is divided between wild specimens, powdered raw materials, and various laboratory-grown mycelium products or supplements, which differ in composition and efficacy.

Scientific research is currently investigating the potential health benefits of the fungus, specifically regarding kidney function, though results remain promising but uncertain.