OPHIOCORDYCEPS NUTANS: AN EVALUATION OF COMMUNITY ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS OF PROTECTION OF THE ENTOMOPATHOGENIC FUNGUS AT BIDOUP-NUI BA NATIONAL PARK

Abstract

   Ophiocordyceps nutans is an entomoparasitic ascomycetes and has long been used extensively in traditional medicine in Asia because of its great aesculapian value. A field survey was undertaken at the Bidoup-Nui Ba National Park to evaluate the local community's environmental awareness. The results show that public knowledge about Cordyceps collection is significant. However, these fungus resources are expected to decline. The ecosystem for the fungus is changing negatively because the local community, which comprises ethnic minorities, is under considerable pressure due to its need for a sustainable livelihood, its low educational attainment, and hard life conditions The study focuses on environmental conditions that support in-situ and ex-situ conservation of this species, such as the temperature, humidity, and light, so that it can continuous to contribute to the sustainable management and enhancement of biodiversity in Bidoup-Nui Ba National Park.