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Mixing oak and eucalyptus sawdusts improves shiitake (Lentinula edodes) yield and nutritional value

Summary

This research explores growing shiitake mushrooms on different wood sawdust mixtures available in Lebanon. A combination of eucalyptus and oak sawdust outperformed oak alone, producing more mushrooms with better nutritional content including higher protein and fiber. This discovery helps local farmers improve mushroom production using readily available materials while creating healthier, more nutritious food.

Background

Shiitake mushrooms are the second-most cultivated edible species globally. While oak sawdust is the standard substrate for synthetic log cultivation, limited research exists on alternative locally available hardwoods like maple and eucalyptus for shiitake production in Lebanon.

Objective

This study aimed to determine the optimal substrate formula for shiitake cultivation using locally available Lebanese hardwoods (oak, maple, eucalyptus) alone or in combination, to improve production, quality, and nutritional value.

Results

The EUC-OS-WB mixture (400-400-200) achieved the highest biological efficiency (74.1%) with improved protein (15.1%), crude fiber (5.4%), and vitamin C contents. Oak sawdust alone showed fastest colonization (72.2 DAS) but lower yields. Maple sawdust alone delayed spawn run and reduced subsequent harvests.

Conclusion

A substrate mixture of equal parts eucalyptus and oak sawdust can effectively substitute pure oak sawdust, providing faster spawn run, consistent production across harvests, superior biological yield, and enhanced nutritional value for shiitake cultivation.
  • Published in:PLoS One,
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: PMID: 39561164, DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0309787
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