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Fruit Body Formation on Silkworm by Cordyceps militaris

Summary

This research demonstrates an improved method for growing medicinal Cordyceps mushrooms using silkworms as hosts. The study provides detailed protocols for successfully cultivating these valuable mushrooms, which have traditionally been difficult to produce commercially. Impact on everyday life: • Makes it easier to produce medicinal Cordyceps mushrooms commercially • Could help reduce the cost of Cordyceps-based supplements and medicines • Provides a new economic opportunity for silkworm farmers • Helps preserve natural Cordyceps populations by providing cultivated alternatives • Increases accessibility to traditional Asian medicine ingredients

Background

Cordyceps is an entomopathogenic fungi that parasitizes insects and spiders, with over 700 known species. About 300 species produce fruiting bodies known as Cordyceps mushrooms. These mushrooms have been used in traditional Asian medicine to strengthen the immune system and boost energy. While Ophiocordyceps sinensis is rare and difficult to cultivate, Cordyceps militaris occurs worldwide and can be grown in culture.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate and optimize injection inoculation protocols for fruit body formation of Cordyceps militaris in silkworm (Bombyx mori) pupae. The research focused on determining optimal conditions including injection volume, concentration, and light intensity to achieve successful infection and fruiting body formation.

Results

The Daeseungjam variety showed the highest infection rate at 90.8%. Pupae aged 9-11 days from mounting showed 100% infection rates. Injection location (head, thorax, or abdomen) did not significantly affect infection rates. Hyphal body concentrations above 2×105 CFU/mL achieved over 96% infection. Light intensity between 500-1000 lx was optimal for fruit body formation, producing thick and long fruiting bodies measuring 65-76mm in length.

Conclusion

The study successfully established optimal protocols for C. militaris fruit body production using silkworm pupae. The Daeseungjam variety, 9-11 day old pupae, hyphal body concentrations above 2×105 CFU/mL, and light intensity of 500-1000 lx provided the best conditions for infection and fruit body formation.
  • Published in:Mycobiology,
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: 10.4489/MYCO.2010.38.2.128
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