First Preliminary Report on Isolation and Characterization of Novel Acinetobacter spp. in Casing Soil Used for Cultivation of Button Mushroom, Agaricus bisporus (Lange) Imbach

Summary

This research investigated the types of bacteria present in the soil layer used to grow button mushrooms. The study discovered new bacterial species that had never before been found in mushroom growing materials. This finding is important for understanding how these bacteria might affect mushroom growth and production. Impacts on everyday life: • Better understanding of mushroom growing conditions could lead to improved mushroom production and availability • Insights into soil bacteria communities could help develop more effective growing methods • Knowledge gained could help farmers optimize mushroom yields • Could lead to more sustainable mushroom cultivation practices

Background

Button mushroom (Agaricus bisporus) cultivation requires two different substrates – compost for nutrition and nutrient-deficient casing soil to stimulate fruit body production. The casing layer is crucial for production quality and uniformity. While various materials have been evaluated as casing substrates, little attention has been given to understanding the biological properties and microbial communities present in casing materials, which can significantly influence mushroom growth and morphogenesis.

Objective

The study aimed to characterize the bacterial flora present in casing layer materials, specifically Farm Yard Manure (FYM) mixed with either Spent Mushroom Substrate (SMS) or Vermi Compost (VC), using partial 16S rDNA sequencing. Additionally, the research sought to understand the impact of casing materials on button mushroom production.

Results

The study revealed significant bacterial diversity in casing materials, with Acinetobacter and Pseudomonas of the γ-proteobacteria being the most frequently encountered genera. About 85% of bacterial isolates belonged to γ-proteobacteria group. The casing materials showed varying physicochemical properties, with FYM+SMS having lower bulk density (0.60 g/cm3) and higher porosity (92%) compared to FYM+VC. Nutrient analysis showed highest levels during the mycelium-impregnated stage.

Conclusion

This represents the first preliminary report documenting the microbial diversity in mushroom casing soils, notably identifying the presence of Acinetobacter species which had not been previously described in casing material. The study provides new insights into the bacterial communities present in casing materials used for button mushroom cultivation.
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