Cordyceps Militaris is a famous Chinese medicine that was discovered over 1,000 years ago. Many people are unaware of the fact that Cordyceps Militaris is a parasite fungus. It is also known as “Caterpillar mushroom” or “fungus mushroom”.
You might be wondering “What is Cordyceps militaris?”
Cordyceps Militaris in dehydrated form. Image courtesy: Raksha Baid Cordyceps is a species of parasitic mushrooms with 400 identifiable subspecies. Its fungus attacks host insects like caterpillars and spiders. “Most caterpillars or insects that are attacked by this fungus live under the ground.
Cordyceps militaris is a entomopathogenic fungus, meaning it parasitizes insects. Many authors consider it quite common, spread throughout the northern hemisphere, and fruiting bodies appear in Europe from August to November.
Where do Cordyceps come from?
They erupt from insects, bringing to mind the infamous scene in Alien in which John Hurt has a very bad meal. Cordyceps militaris is the best-known and most frequently collected bug-killing Cordyceps, but there are dozens of “entomogenous” species in North America.
How do you grow Cordyceps militaris at home?
Here are some pointers to get folks started cultivating Cordyceps militaris at home. I am selling nutrients and cultures so get your cordy on! Containers– a great first container are quart mason jars with a modified lid to allow for gas exchange.
Growing cordyceps can be very difficult, especially because supplies are hard to find. If you’re serious about growing them yourself, you may want to experiment with different cultivation methods to find one that works for you.
Fruiting is initiated primarily by changing the light cycles. Temperature can play a factor as well, depending on what the incubation temperature was. A 16 hour on and 8 hour off light cycle is ideal for fruiting cordyceps, they are extremely phototropic and will grow towards any source of light.
What is the best bug-killing Cordyceps?
Cordyceps militaris is the best-known and most frequently collected bug-killing Cordyceps, but there are dozens of “entomogenous” species in North America. The victim for Cordyceps militaris is a pupa or larva (usually of a butterfly or moth). Its mycelium colonizes the living insect and mummifies it,.