Effects of Substrate Composition on Growth Parameters of Two Volvariella Species

Dr. Jyothi Kanchan A. S.

Abstract: Mushrooms have the ability to degrade and convert different agro-wastes into valuable products. Environmental contaminations can be ameliorated by the application of mushroom mycelial technologies, that is by the use of bioconversion processes to transform unwanted substances into valuable food stuffs by the proper treatment and reutilization of spent substrates. It has been observed that over 70% of agricultural and forest products have not been put to total productivity, and has been discarded as waste. Mushrooms can convert these huge ligno-cellulosic biomass wastes into useful products, the palatable forms of food protein. The study investigates the influence of substrate composition on the growth parameters of two Volvariella species, V. volvaceae and V. diplasia. Rice straw, sugarcane bagasse, and their combinations were used as substrates for mushroom cultivation. The results showed that rice straw emerged as the most favorable substrate for both species. The study highlights the potential of rice straw as an ideal substrate for Volvariella cultivation, providing essential nutrients and suitable physical conditions for optimal growth and fruiting. The utilization of rice straw aligns with circular economy principles, transforming agricultural waste into a valuable resource for food production. The findings have significant commercial implications for mushroom farmers, potentially reducing production costs, increasing yields, and diversifying mushroom production. The successful cultivation of Volvariella species on rice straw presents opportunities for enhancing food security and sustainable agriculture practices.

Keywords: Mushroom, Volvariella, Straw, Sugarcane baggasse, Substrate