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Factors Affecting Mushroom Pleurotus spp.: A Comprehensive Review of Intrinsic and Extrinsic Parameters

Summary

This research provides a comprehensive overview of the factors that affect the cultivation of Pleurotus mushrooms, commonly known as oyster mushrooms. These edible fungi are important both commercially and nutritionally, offering a sustainable food source that can be grown on agricultural waste materials. Impacts on everyday life: • Provides guidance for small-scale and commercial mushroom farmers to improve cultivation success • Offers insights into converting agricultural waste into valuable food products • Helps make mushroom cultivation more accessible and efficient for local food production • Supports the development of sustainable food systems • Contributes to better understanding of how to produce nutritious, protein-rich food alternatives

Background

Over 200 species of mushrooms have been used as functional foods worldwide, but only about 35 species are commercially cultivated. Pleurotus genus ranks second in the world mushroom market and is particularly popular in China. These mushrooms are valued for their nutritional qualities, containing 20-35% protein, low lipids, essential amino acids, and various bioactive compounds with health benefits.

Objective

This review aims to present a practical checklist of available intrinsic and extrinsic factors affecting Pleurotus mushroom cultivation, providing useful synthetic information for different users. The study focuses on understanding the fundamental physical, chemical, biological and enzymatic properties needed for appropriate and efficient production of Pleurotus species.

Results

The review found that successful Pleurotus cultivation depends on multiple interacting factors. Optimal conditions include substrate moisture between 50-75%, pH 4.0-7.0 for mycelium growth, temperature ranges of 18-30°C, humidity of 60-97%, controlled CO2 levels of 1500-2500 mg/L, and appropriate light exposure of 200-640 lux for 8-12 hours daily. Substrate composition and supplementation with minerals and nitrogen sources significantly affect yield and mushroom quality.

Conclusion

The survival and multiplication of Pleurotus mushrooms is influenced by numerous factors that may act individually or have interactive effects. Optimizing the combination of air temperature, moisture, nutrients and other variables provides synergistic effects that maximize mushroom production while reducing losses and costs. A thorough understanding of both intrinsic and extrinsic factors is essential for suitable and efficient Pleurotus spp. cultivation.
  • Published in:Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences,
  • Study Type:Review,
  • Source: 10.1016/j.sjbs.2016.12.005
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