Vegetative Growth and Phylogenetic Relationship of Commercially Cultivated Strains of Pleurotus eryngii Based on ITS Sequence and RAPD

Summary

This research studied the king oyster mushroom (Pleurotus eryngii), a commercially important edible mushroom, to understand its optimal growing conditions and genetic relationships between different cultivated strains. The scientists determined the best temperature, acidity levels, and nutrients needed for mushroom growth, while also analyzing DNA differences between strains from various countries. Impacts on everyday life: • Helps mushroom farmers optimize growing conditions for better yields • Enables identification of high-quality mushroom strains for commercial cultivation • Contributes to improving food security through better mushroom production • Supports sustainable agriculture through efficient mushroom farming practices • Aids in quality control and authenticity verification of commercial mushroom products

Background

Pleurotus eryngii, known as king oyster mushroom, is a tetrapolar heterothallic fungus that forms edible fruiting bodies on lignocellulosic substrates. It grows wild in forests of hilly areas and is cultivated in temperate and subtropical regions worldwide. The fungus is distributed from France and Spain to western China, including Mediterranean regions. It produces various biologically active molecules and novel enzymes, including laccase, a ligninolytic enzyme typically produced as multiple isoenzymes.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate molecular genomic polymorphisms among selected strains of P. eryngii using both ITS sequence and RAPD analysis, and to explore the physical and chemical conditions for optimal mycelial growth. The research sought to identify strains with high yield potential through assessment of genetic and phenotypic diversity.

Results

Optimal mycelial growth was observed at 30°C and pH 6. Glucose peptone, yeast malt extract and mushroom complete media were most favorable for growth. Dextrin was the best carbon source while ammonium acetate was the most effective nitrogen source. ITS region sequences ranged from 518-616 bp, with variable ITS1 (214-222 bp) and ITS2 (145-236 bp) regions. Phylogenetic analysis revealed six distinct clusters among the strains. RAPD analysis with 14 effective primers generated polymorphic fragments ranging from 0.2-2.3 kb.

Conclusion

The study successfully characterized optimal growth conditions and genetic relationships among commercial P. eryngii strains. Results showed significant diversity in growth requirements and genetic profiles between strains from different geographical origins. The combined use of ITS sequencing and RAPD analysis proved effective for strain identification and determining phylogenetic relationships.
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