In the opening days of February 2026, the world of mycology has seen a flurry of activity that bridges the gap between ancient ecosystems and futuristic medicine. From the hidden forests of the Balkans to the cutting-edge labs of Australia, fungi continue to prove they are far more than just decomposers—they are the architects of our health and culture.
Croatia’s Krka National Park Unveils 11 New Species
The week began with a stunning announcement from Croatia’s Krka National Park. A major scientific research project involving experts from across Europe has successfully identified 11 mushroom species previously unknown to the country, including an entirely new genus. The park, famous for its waterfalls, is now being recognized as a global biodiversity hotspot for fungi.
Researchers spent seasons surveying the park’s primary forest habitats, recording 184 samples. Among the highlights were species like Inocybe griseolilacina and Cortinarius leproleptopus. This discovery emphasizes the importance of site protection; nine of the newly recorded species are already listed on the Croatian Red List of Fungi, highlighting the urgent need for conservation in these fragile habitats.
Psilocybin Research Offers New Hope for Anorexia Treatment
On February 3, 2026, researchers at Monash University in Australia released a groundbreaking study on the effects of psilocybin, the psychoactive compound in “magic mushrooms.” The study specifically looked at female mice modeling anorexia nervosa—a condition with one of the highest mortality rates in psychiatry.
The results showed that psilocybin has context-dependent effects on social behavior and inflammation. In subjects facing metabolic stress and exercise-induced weight loss, psilocybin appeared to address both the social deficits and the elevated inflammatory cytokines often found in patients with eating disorders. This research marks a vital step toward tailored psychedelic therapies that recognize the biological differences in how female and male bodies respond to these powerful compounds.
Mycelium Takes Center Stage at India Art Fair 2026
Fungi are also making waves in the cultural sphere. At the 17th India Art Fair, international artist-in-residence Lakmini Illangasinghe debuted her installation titled “Soft Armours.” The work features sculptures made of broken glass bangles—traditionally considered omens of misfortune—intricately entwined with living mycelium.
This installation reflects a broader trend of “climate optimism” in the art world. By using mycelium as a binding agent, artists are moving away from romanticized views of nature and instead engaging with “stressed systems.” The mycelium serves as a metaphor for resilience and regeneration, showing how the “detritus of development” can be transformed into something life-sustaining.
Nutraceuticals: Blending Ancient Grains and Fungi
Finally, the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) in South Africa announced a new initiative on February 4 to merge traditional knowledge with modern pharmaceutical science. Their latest project involves developing a range of probiotic-rich nutraceuticals that blend indigenous grains with medicinal mushroom extracts.
Targeting sports nutrition and general wellness, these products utilize the high protein and immune-modulating properties of fungi to enhance the nutritional profile of local crops. It is a significant move toward “food-as-medicine,” providing sustainable, science-backed health solutions that support both local farmers and consumer health.
Sources:
- Croatia Week: “11 new mushroom types to Croatia discovered in NP Krka” (Feb 4, 2026).
- EurekAlert!: “Psilocybin shows context-dependent effects on social behavior and inflammation” (Feb 3, 2026).
- The Hindu: “Mycelium to Miyawaki forests at India Art Fair 2026” (Jan 30 – Feb 5, 2026).
- Tshwane University of Technology News: “TUT turns traditional grains into modern medicine” (Feb 4, 2026).