The hidden value of non-timber forest products: income contribution of the Basilicata wild truffle

The Basilicata region (South of Italy) is land truffles where the gastronomic, economic and cultural awareness has developed for this non-timber forest product only in past decade. Little known about truffle production its social, environmental implications. In article we investigate sector by devoting particular attention to hunters who gather from forests. data analysis were collected through a survey with aim describing gathering activity (people involved, specie quantities collected, etc.) assessing significance as source income. Results show that can provide local communities earning opportunities. However, needs be protected enhanced.