Cempaki (Termitomyces microcarpus)

Cempaki (Termitomyces microcarpus) is a species of fungus in the Lyophyllaceae family. It grows wild in tropical Asian forests near termite nests. It is rarely reported in urban areas. It is edible and known for its deliciousness, high nutritional value, and difficulty in cultivating. In Indonesia, it is used as an alternative food ingredient.

T. microcarpus is the smallest of the Termitomyces species, umbrella-shaped, plain white, measuring 5 cm tall and 2.5 cm wide. It grows in dense clusters on surfaces and forms a mutualistic relationship, requiring the metabolic activity of termites as a substrate for growth.

This species is known for its deliciousness, rich in nutrients, and has potential bioactive properties, such as helping lower cholesterol and acting as a tonic. Currently, it is difficult to cultivate on a large scale, and people rely solely on wild harvests.

This mushroom is highly favored for its savory, delicious flavor and soft, chewy texture. It is often stir-fried as a side dish. Another variation is the main ingredient in spicy, savory seblak (spicy seblak), often served with galangal seasoning and various toppings, including meatballs, sausages, and other ingredients.

Kingdom: Fungi
Phylum: Basidiomycota
Subphylum: Agaricomycotina
Class: Agaricomycetes
Subclass: Agaricomycetidae
Order: Agaricales
Suborder: Tricholomatineae
Family: Lyophyllaceae
Genus: Termitomyces
Species: Termitomyces microcarpus

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