Productivity of Pleurotus ostreatus under solid state fermentation on lignocellulosic substrates

Three lignocellulosic substrates (Cedrus deodara, Abies pindrow and Populous ciliata) were used for the cultivation of Pleurotus ostreatus and 2-3 flushes were obtained from these substrates. C. deodara and A. pindrow accelerated the mushroom growing processes. The mycelial completed colonization, primordium initiation and fruiting bodies formation were found within 28, 40 and 44 days respectively. The C. deodara sawdust gave the maximum mushrooms yield that was significantly different to those obtained from A. pindrow and P. ciliata. Likewise, influence of nitrogen source on mycelial growth and fruiting bodies of P. ostreatus was determined, forming the basis for the assessment of loss or gain of organic matter. The mycelium extension rates, number of fruiting bodies and organic matter loss was found to be the highest in 4% chick pea supplemented C. deodara A. pindrow and P. ciliata sawdust as compared to control as well as 1 and 2% supplemented substrates. Similarly, 4% ammonium and nitrate salts supported fast growth of P. ostreatus whereas urea was proved unsuitable for P. ostreatus. Supplemented P. ciliata sawdust was poor substrate to support P. ostreatus growth out of the three substrates tested.