Effect of agrowastes, pH and temperaturevariation on the growth of Volvariella volvacea

Abstract

The effect of pH and temperature variations on the growth of Volvariella volvaceacultivated on various agricultural wastes singly and in various combinations was studied.  A pH range of 5.5 to 8.5 recorded the maximum mycelia yield and the highest mycelia weight was recorded at pH 6.5. The mycelia yield decreased at pH above 6.5 while poor mycelia growth of the mushroom and the least mycelia weight was recorded at pH 2.0.  High mycelia growth of the mushroom was also observed between 25°C and30°C with the highest mycelia dry weight of 80.0 mg obtained at 30°C, and the least mycelia dry  weight of 0.5 mg obtained at 10°C. The use of these wastes in mushroom cultivation enhances the biological recycling of nutrients.   Key words: Agricultural wastes, temperature, pH, Volvariella volvacea.