Effect of high light intensity and electrical shock treatment on the growth performance and yield of Grey Oyster Mushroom (Pleurotus sajor caju)

Abstract

High demand, low cost production and vigorous mycellium growth of grey oyster mushroom (Pleurotus sajor-caju) makes it popular among small farmers to commercially cultivate it in Malaysia. In this experiment, the effect of high light intensity, electric shock, combination of electric and high light intensity and alternate treatment of electric and highlight intensity on the growth, yield and physico-chemical analysis of the mushroom was examined. Treated bag with electric, alternate, combine displayed shorter spawn running time compared to control. Overall period of first mushroom harvesting was led by combine with 30.4 days. Electric shock was revealed to have fastest mycellium growth rate about 0.96cm/day, highest yield of 378.5g and lowest substrate utilization efficiency. Light showed greatest values in term of longest diameter in largest pileus with 12.58cm, colour L* values about 72.63 and 88.56% of moisture content. In conclusion, electric was the best treatment compared to other physical stimulant implemented in this experiment due greatest yield of mushroom production despite of lowest substrate utilization. There were no significant differences showed for colour b* values, moisture content and the firmness of pileus.