Examining caterpillar fungus (Ophiocordyceps sinensis) harvesting and management practice at Pupal pasture of Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, Nepal

Abstract

This thesis examines the contribution of caterpillar fungus (Ophiocordyceps sinensis) to rural livelihoods and the role of community-based resource management in the Pupal pasture of Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, Nepal. Using a socio-ecological system's perspective, a survey instrument was developed and implemented among 223 harvesters, two traders and five community leaders during the fungus harvesting period in May-June 2019. Findings suggest that the harvesters earned USD 3,090 PPP on average from fungus collection, about 80% of household income, and that the sustainability of the resource is at risk. The implications of these findings for sustainable fungus harvesting and governance are discussed.

https://research-repository.uwa.edu.au/en/publications/examining-caterpillar-fungus-iophiocordyceps-sinensisi-harvesting