What causes the degeneration of edible mushroom spawn?

Edible mushroom spawn degeneration is caused by mutations in the genetic material of the mycelium. It manifests as the spawn suddenly or gradually losing its original vitality, high-yielding performance, or partial changes in the morphology of the fruiting bodies. The mycelium grows slowly, dense white fan-shaped colonies appear on the culture medium, resistance to environmental conditions such as temperature, pH, carbon dioxide, oxygen, and contaminating microorganisms is weak, the fruiting body formation period is advanced or delayed, and the flushes of mushroom emergence are not distinct.

Since the emergence of these degeneration phenomena causes considerable losses in production, what methods can be used to prevent edible mushroom spawn degeneration? Here are 7 measures to prevent edible mushroom spawn degeneration.

1. Ensure pure culture of the spawn

Do not use spawn contaminated by other microorganisms, and do not use different strains of the same edible mushroom species mixed together or cultured close together in contact.

2. Strictly control the number of spawn subcultures

Reduce mechanical damage to ensure spawn vitality.

3. Store spawn at appropriately low temperatures

Low-temperature type spawn (such as button mushroom, shiitake, etc.) is stored at 4°C, and high-temperature type spawn (such as straw mushroom) at 16°C, which helps preserve mycelium vitality.

4. Avoid multiple subcultures in a single culture medium

Following a reasonable sequence of generations - mother culture, stock culture, and production spawn - on different types of culture media helps improve spawn vitality and maintain excellent traits.

5. Spawn should not be used for too long

Over-age spawn will age, and aging is organically linked to degeneration; spawn with weak vitality is very prone to degeneration.

6. Spawn should be rejuvenated regularly

This is carried out under conditions of suitable temperature, appropriate pH, sufficient oxygen, appropriate diffused light, and culture without contaminating microorganisms.

7. Carry out spore isolation every year

Use sexual propagation to discover superior strains, and use tissue isolation to consolidate the genetic characteristics of superior strains.

By paying attention to the above 7 points in edible mushroom cultivation and production, you can effectively prevent the degeneration of edible mushroom spawn, select superior spawn to continue cultivation, and ensure the sustainability of edible mushroom cultivation.