The Far Eastern Obabok, scientifically known as Rugiboletus extremiorientalis (formerly Leccinum extremiorientale), is a distinctive edible mushroom from the Boletaceae family. It's the type species of the genus Rugiboletus, which was established in 2015 based on molecular phylogenetic evidence, with its name derived from the Latin "rugi-", meaning "wrinkled", a nod to its most prominent feature.
This large fungus is native to the forests of East Asia, including the Russian Far East, China, Japan, and Korea. It is easy to recognize by its massive, hemispherical cap that is strongly wrinkled when young and often develops a network of cracks with age. The cap is typically brownish-yellow to brown, and its stipe is covered in characteristic dark, dotted squamules.
Prized for its culinary value, it is also a subject of scientific interest for its unique chemical composition and bio-active properties, including strong antioxidant and anti-hyperglycaemic activities. It's a fascinating organism that bridges the worlds of gastronomy and natural medicine.
This 3D asset was created from 104 images, captured with a Fujifilm X-T3 paired with a versatile XF 18-55mm kit lens.