Scientists have announced the discovery of a **rare specimen of the giant puffball mushroom** (Calvatia gigantea) in the Bystrinsky Natural Park in Kamchatka. This significant find was reported by the press service of the `Volcanoes of Kamchatka` natural park network.
Courtesy of Volcanoes of Kamchatka Natural Park Network
The discovery was made during a joint expedition involving specialists from `Volcanoes of Kamchatka` and botanist Olga Chernyagina. What makes this finding particularly noteworthy is that this species, which belongs to the Agaricaceae family, **had not been previously recorded in the Bystrinsky district**, highlighting its unusual presence in the region.
Courtesy of Volcanoes of Kamchatka Natural Park Network
According to scientists, this mushroom is remarkable for its impressive size, often reaching up to **80 centimeters in diameter** and weighing several kilograms. Historical records even mention exceptional specimens up to 150 centimeters in diameter and nearly 23 kilograms in weight. A distinctive characteristic of the giant puffball is its **exceptionally rapid growth**, achieving its maximum dimensions in just about one week.
The giant puffball is considered a culinary delicacy, but only when it is young and immature. At this stage, its flesh remains firm and pure white. From a nutritional standpoint, this mushroom is highly valuable, with a **nutritional content comparable to that of meat, eggs, and dairy products**.
Rupert Blackwood 
Clement Ashworth