06-08-2013, 04:34 PM
Evaluation of high yielding varieties / strains of Oyster Mushroom (Pleurotus spp.)
ABSTRACT
The genus Pleurotus (Jacq.:Fr.) kumm. is one of the most diverse group of cultivated mushrooms with high nutritive value, therapeutic properties and various environmental and biotechnological applications. Optimization of industrial mushroom production depends on improving the culture process and breeding new strains with higher yields and productivity. The selection of a suitable strain for every environment is based on temperature, light and nutrient requirements. A total of six high yielding strains of Pleurotus spp. viz. PL-11-01, PL-11-02, PL-11-03, PL-11-04, PL-11-05 and PL-11-06 were evaluated on wheat straw substrate which was prepared using chemical sterilization method. Days taken for spawn run were maximum (24 days) in PL-11-04 and minimum in PL-11-05 and PL-11-06 (20 days). Observations on stripe length, pileus diameter and pileus size were also made. Maximum yield of 71.66 kg / 100 Kg of dry substrate was obtained in strain PL-11-01 followed by PL-11-06.