Symbiosis to Sustainability: Exploring the Role of Termitomyces clypeatus in Ecosystem Services and Community Livelihoods in West African Forests

Abstract

Termitomyces clypeatus, a member of the genus Termitomyces, enjoys a strong symbiotic relationship with termites. This symbiosis between the wild edible mushrooms and termites yields innumerable provisioning, regulating, supporting, and cultural services through its contributions to the well-being of the members of the communities living along the forests in regions in which Termitomyces clypeatus thrive. West Africa is one of these regions. Their association with significant ecosystem services in ways that improve the livelihoods of communities establishes Termitomyces clypeatus as important members of the terrestrial ecosystem. This review evaluates existing literature and studies on the specific roles played by Termitomyces clypeatus in improving the well-being and livelihoods of communities in West African forests. The findings uncover relatively understudied links between Termitomyces clypeatus, termites, and the food insecurity and protein deficiency problems facing West African communities. The missing links establish the need for further investment in research on Termitomyces clypeatus to ensure that their potential as sources of food and medicine, ecological benefits, and roles in the maintenance of soil quality are realized fully.