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Growth and yield performance of Pleurotus ostreatus (Jacq. Fr.) Kumm (oyster mushroom) on different substrates

Summary

This study tested four different waste materials (cotton seed, paper waste, wheat straw, and sawdust) to grow oyster mushrooms. Cotton seed proved to be the best material, producing more mushrooms in less time and with higher efficiency. The research shows that farmers can use agricultural waste to grow nutritious mushrooms, creating a sustainable income source while reducing environmental pollution.

Background

Mushroom cultivation represents an economically viable biotechnology process for converting lignocellulosic wastes from agriculture and forestry. Despite Ethiopia’s favorable climate and resources, the mushroom industry lacks technology adoption and know-how. This study addresses the need to promote technology transfer for mushroom cultivation using agricultural and forest wastes.

Objective

To assess the suitability of selected substrates (cotton seed, paper waste, wheat straw, and sawdust) for oyster mushroom cultivation and evaluate their effects on growth performance and yield of Pleurotus ostreatus.

Results

Cotton seed produced the highest biological yield (315.75 g), economic yield (277.30 g), and biological efficiency (74.17%), while sawdust produced the lowest yields. Mycelial colonization was fastest on cotton seed and paper waste (14 days), and fruiting body maturity ranged from 27 to 40.67 days depending on substrate type.

Conclusion

Cotton seed is the preferred substrate for oyster mushroom cultivation, followed by paper waste as a suitable alternative. The study demonstrates that oyster mushroom can be successfully cultivated on agricultural and forest wastes, with potential for promoting this industry in Ethiopia and improving livelihoods of small-holder farmers and landless laborers.
  • Published in:AMB Express,
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: PMID: 27704469
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