Is Widely Cultivated ‘Pleurotus sajor-caju’, Especially in Asia, Indeed an Independent Species?

This research clarifies the true identity of a widely cultivated mushroom in Asia known as Pleurotus sajor-caju. The study reveals that this mushroom is actually a variety of another species called Pleurotus pulmonarius, rather than being its own distinct species. This finding has important implications for mushroom cultivation and taxonomy. Impacts on everyday life: • Helps mushroom farmers better understand what they’re actually growing • Improves accuracy in mushroom identification and labeling • Contributes to better standardization in the commercial mushroom industry • Assists in maintaining proper scientific records for food safety and regulation • Benefits consumers by providing accurate information about the mushrooms they consume