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Growth Characteristics of Polyporales Mushrooms for Mycelial Mat Formation

Summary

This research explores using mushroom mycelia as an eco-friendly alternative to fossil fuel-based materials. Scientists identified a specific mushroom strain (Ganoderma lucidum LBS5496GL) that produces strong, dense mycelial mats suitable for creating sustainable materials. Impact on everyday life: • Could lead to new eco-friendly packaging materials • May help reduce dependence on fossil fuel-based products • Potential for creating sustainable furniture and building materials • Offers a way to utilize agricultural waste products • Could contribute to reducing environmental pollution from synthetic materials

Background

Fossil fuels have been a crucial energy and material source since the Industrial Revolution, but their depletion and environmental impact necessitate eco-friendly alternatives. Agaricomycetes, particularly mushrooms, have emerged as potential sources for developing bio-composite materials using their mycelia combined with agricultural byproducts.

Objective

To explore and identify mushroom strains from the order Polyporales that demonstrate optimal mycelial growth characteristics for potential industrial applications as alternatives to fossil fuel-based materials. The study specifically focused on evaluating growth rates, mycelial density, and strength of individual hyphae among 64 Polyporales strains.

Results

Among the 64 strains tested, Ganoderma lucidum LBS5496GL emerged as the best candidate, showing fast mycelial growth and high mycelial strength in both media types. SEM analysis revealed this strain produced significantly thicker hyphae (13 µm diameter) compared to other strains (<2 µm). Glycerol proved to be the optimal carbon source, while skim milk was the best nitrogen source for mycelial growth of LBS5496GL.

Conclusion

G. lucidum LBS5496GL demonstrated superior characteristics for mycelial mat formation, including fast growth rate and strong physical properties, making it a promising candidate for industrial applications in developing eco-friendly materials. The study successfully optimized growth conditions and achieved scale-up production of large mycelial mats.
  • Published in:Mycobiology,
  • Study Type:Laboratory Research,
  • Source: 10.1080/12298093.2021.1911401
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