Researchers from Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) have identified a new species of morel mushroom, *Morchella rinjaniensis*, in the Rinjani Biosphere Reserve on Lombok Island. This discovery marks the first scientifically described tropical morel species in Indonesia.
*Morchella rinjaniensis* is characterized by its large fruiting body, irregular ridges and pits, and large spores with a maze-like surface pattern. Genetic analysis of four genes confirmed its distinct status as a new species, closely related to *Morchella galilaea* but with clear morphological and genetic differences.
The mushroom was found growing at elevations between 900 and 1,200 meters in areas such as Torean, Senaru, Sembalun, Tetebatu, and Aik Berik. It typically appears during the transition from the rainy to the dry season, around April to May. The species thrives under the shade of natural forest vegetation, often near small water streams or in semi-open areas, and is associated with plant species from the Elaeocarpaceae, Urticaceae, and Myrtaceae families.
This new species has potential as a high-value alternative food source, as it belongs to the edible mushroom group. The researchers emphasize the importance of conservation-based management to preserve the natural population of *Morchella rinjaniensis*. They hope that this discovery will open opportunities for environmentally friendly mushroom cultivation that benefits local communities.
The findings were published in the international journal *Mycobiology*, Volume 53(4), pages 367–378 (2025), under the title “*Morchella rinjaniensis*: A Novel Species of Tropical Morchella (Ascomycota, Pezizales, and Morchellaceae) Discovered in UNESCO Rinjani-Lombok Biosphere Reserve, Indonesia” by Retnowati et al. (2025).