Tuber melanosporum, also known as perigord black truffle belongs to the fungi species. Perigord black truffle is the best known mycorrhizal mushroom and also one of the best edible mushrooms. Perigord black truffle is used widely in gourmet cooking where they either add flavors of its own to a dish or enhance the flavor of other foods cooked with it. Since the perigord black truffle has such a unique aroma and taste it has been placed gastronomy alongside saffron, caviar, foie gras and the finest wines. 18th century gastronome Brillat-Savanin even called these truffles “ the diamond of the kitchen”. Tom Ford used perigord black truffle organically in his high end perfume called black orchid.
The black truffle, Tuber melanosporum, grows exclusively in European countries such as France, Spain, Italy and small amounts are also found in New Zealand. Recently from the Genome sequence project, scientist has been able to learn that truffles are 2 gender species with sexual reproduction occurring between strains of opposite mating type. This recent finding will allow scientist to try to reproduce this specie in other countries so it will be available to more people. In the near future people will be able to enjoy this delicacy at a more reasonable price. (208)
References:
Nardini, A., Salleo, S., Tyree, M.T., Vertovec M.(2000). Influence of the ectomycorrhizas formed by tuber melanosporum vitt. On hydraulic conductance and water relations of quercus ilex l. seedlings. Annals of forest science, 57, 305-312. Doi: 10.1051/forest:2000121
Rangahau, M.K. (1998) Tuber melanosporum. Crop food and research retrieved from http:// www.crop.cri.riz
Scientists reveal the sex wars of the truffle grounds. (2010, October 25) retrieved from http://www.physorg.com/news/2010-10-scientists-reveal-sex-wars-truffle.html
Here's some videos that explains more about the black truffle =)
