2025, Vol. 7, Issue 5, Part C

Author(s): Sarika Lamichhane, Dorji Wangchuk and Thandar Aye

Abstract: Mushroom cultivation has emerged as an important bio-industrial activity due to its low input requirement, high economic return, and ability to convert agricultural waste into edible biomass. Among cultivated mushrooms, Pleurotus ostreatus (oyster mushroom) is the most widely produced species globally because of its fast growth rate, tolerance to diverse substrates, and high nutritional value. However, achieving consistent yield and biological efficiency depends heavily on substrate quality and nutrient availability. Biochar an organic, carbon-rich material produced via pyrolysis has gained attention for its unique characteristics, including a high surface area, enhanced porosity, cation exchange capacity, and ability to support microbial proliferation. These properties have prompted research on its potential to improve substrate structure, nutrient retention, and enzymatic activity in mushroom cultivation. Several pre-2024 studies indicate that biochar amendments may stimulate mycelial growth, enhance substrate aeration, regulate moisture, and improve fruiting body production, yet the magnitude and consistency of these effects vary widely across mushroom species, biochar types, and dosage levels. The absence of comparative trials specifically evaluating different levels of biochar supplementation on P. ostreatus highlights a major research gap. This research addresses this gap by analyzing how varying biochar concentrations influence growth rate, spawn run period, pinhead initiation, yield parameters, and biological efficiency. The hypothesis posits that moderate biochar supplementation enhances both growth and yield compared with control substrates lacking biochar. The findings are intended to provide cost-effective and sustainable recommendations for oyster mushroom producers, particularly in regions with abundant biomass residues suitable for biochar production.

DOI: 10.33545/27068919.2025.v7.i5c.1762

Pages: 226-230 | Views: 87 | Downloads: 47

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