Cyttaria hariotii facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cyttaria hariotii |
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| Cyttaria hariotii fruiting bodies | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | |
| Division: | |
| Class: |
Leotiomycetes
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| Order: |
Cyttariales
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| Family: |
Cyttariaceae
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| Genus: |
Cyttaria
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| Species: |
C. hariotii
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| Binomial name | |
| Cyttaria hariotii E.Fisch. (1888)
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Cyttaria hariotii is a special kind of edible mushroom. People often call it llao llao, llaullao, or pan de indio. This interesting fungus grows in a cool part of the world called Patagonia. You can find it in southern Chile and Argentina.
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About the Llao Llao Mushroom
The llao llao mushroom is a type of fungus. It lives on Nothofagus trees, also known as Southern beech trees. When a living thing lives on another and gets its food from it, we call it a parasite. The llao llao mushroom is a parasite of these trees.
Where Does Llao Llao Grow?
You can find Cyttaria hariotii in the beautiful region of Patagonia. This area covers parts of southern Chile and Argentina. The mushroom needs specific trees to grow, which are the Nothofagus trees. These trees are often found in the forests of this region.
How Llao Llao Grows on Trees
The llao llao fungus grows inside the Nothofagus trees. It affects the tree's sap ducts, which are like tiny tubes that carry water and nutrients. When the fungus blocks these tubes, the tree tries to protect itself. It does this by growing a special lump called a gall.
The gall helps the tree work around the blocked sap ducts. But the fungus doesn't stop there. It grows out of the gall and spreads to other parts of the tree's branches. It looks like a fruit growing on the branches, even though it's a mushroom!
Is Llao Llao Edible?
Yes, Cyttaria hariotii is a great edible mushroom! It has a sweet flavor that many people enjoy. Because of its taste, it's often used to make delicious treats.
People use llao llao to create:
- Desserts
- Sweets
- Even ice cream
It's a popular ingredient in the areas where it grows, especially in Patagonia.
See also
In Spanish: Llao llao para niños
