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Seasonal discrepancy of airborne fungal diversity and community structure in Lentinula edodes factory

Summary

This study examined how fungal spores in the air of shiitake mushroom factories change with the seasons and relate to a disease called shiitake artificial log rot disease (SLRD). Researchers found that when temperatures drop and humidity rises in autumn and winter, a harmful fungus called Trichoderma thrives in the air and causes more disease. By keeping the growing areas warmer, growers can significantly reduce disease occurrence and protect both their crops and workers’ health.

Background

Lentinula edodes (shiitake) is one of the most widely cultivated edible mushrooms globally. Shiitake artificial log rot disease (SLRD), primarily caused by Trichoderma spp., is a serious fungal disease affecting shiitake production. Understanding airborne fungal communities associated with fungal diseases is critical for disease control and worker health in mushroom factories.

Objective

This study investigated airborne fungal concentrations and characterized airborne fungal communities in a shiitake factory across high and low incidence seasons of SLRD using high-throughput sequencing. The study aimed to explore relationships between fungal communities, SLRD incidence rates, and environmental parameters.

Results

Airborne fungal concentrations in cultivation greenhouses were 7,000-8,500 CFU/m³, significantly higher than in spawn-running greenhouses (250-450 CFU/m³). Four major fungal contaminants (Trichoderma, Penicillium, Cladosporium, and Aspergillus) were identified as stable core fungi. SLRD high incidence season was characterized by low temperature (16.6°C), high humidity (93.3%), and high Trichoderma abundance (20.3%), while low incidence season showed higher temperature, lower humidity, and minimal Trichoderma abundance (0.7%).

Conclusion

Environmental factors, particularly temperature and humidity, significantly influence airborne fungal communities and SLRD occurrence. SLRD incidence can be significantly reduced by appropriately increasing ambient temperature during fruiting. The findings provide valuable information for fungal disease management and occupational health protection in mushroom factories.
  • Published in:Mycology,
  • Study Type:Observational Study,
  • Source: DOI: 10.1080/21501203.2024.2323714, PMID: 40083421
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