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Pathological Properties of Cryptococcus pseudolongus on the Mycelia and Fruit Body of Lentinula edodes

Summary

This research investigated how a newly discovered yeast pathogen affects shiitake mushrooms, which are important food crops. The study found that this pathogen specifically attacks shiitake mushrooms by causing brown discoloration and tissue damage, but doesn’t significantly affect other mushroom types. The researchers also identified two effective chemical treatments to control this pathogen. Impacts on everyday life: • Helps protect commercial shiitake mushroom production and food supply • Ensures better quality shiitake mushrooms for consumers • Provides mushroom farmers with specific treatment options for disease control • Contributes to maintaining affordable shiitake prices by preventing crop losses • Improves food safety by better understanding mushroom pathogens

Background

Shiitake mushroom (Lentinula edodes) is a major cultivated edible mushroom accounting for about 22% of the world’s mushroom supply. It has important nutritional and medicinal properties, including antitumor compounds like lentinan. Fungal diseases can significantly reduce shiitake quality and yields. Recently, Cryptococcus pseudolongus was identified as a new pathogen causing brown rot disease in shiitake, but its pathological properties were not well understood.

Objective

To investigate the pathological properties of Cryptococcus pseudolongus on shiitake mushroom by examining: 1) its interactions with shiitake mycelium, 2) histopathological effects, 3) host range specificity, and 4) sensitivity to antifungal agents. Additionally, to determine if other related Cryptococcus species could cause similar brown rot disease.

Results

C. pseudolongus inhibited shiitake mycelial growth and caused browning in confrontation tests. The pathogen induced abnormal browning symptoms on caps and gills of all three shiitake cultivars tested. SEM analysis revealed tissue degradation and disrupted basidiospore arrangement in infected areas. The pathogen showed specificity to shiitake, with limited effects on other mushroom species. Benzalkonium chloride (MIC 7 μg/ml) and benomyl (MIC 3 μg/ml) effectively inhibited C. pseudolongus growth without harming shiitake.

Conclusion

C. pseudolongus demonstrates specific pathogenicity to shiitake mushrooms by causing tissue degradation, browning, and growth inhibition. The pathogen can affect multiple cultivation stages including mycelial growth, fruit body development, and post-harvest storage. Benzalkonium chloride and benomyl show promise as control agents.
  • Published in:Mycobiology,
  • Study Type:Laboratory Research,
  • Source: 10.1080/12298093.2021.1873486
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