Abstract

Optimization of the substrate used for the cultivation of mushrooms is a unique substitute to achieve a better yield of fruitbodies. Oil seed cakes particularly; groundnut seed cake (GSC) and neem seed cake (NSC) are the source of organic carbon and nitrogen are essential for mushroom growth and enhanced mushroom production. Under this study, both cakes (GSC and NSC) were employed at distinct levels namely 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, and 10% (w/w) along with the wheat straw. It was evident that GSC was superior cake over NSC. The highest yield and biological efficiency (BE) (2583 g and 258.3%) and (1432 g and 143.3%) were found with GSC and NSC at their lower concentrations, i.e., 5% and 1%. However, the highest concentration of both cakes did not favor the parameters of mushroom cultivation. Moreover, the level of enzyme activity of manganese peroxidase (MnP) and laccase was also promoted at its lower concentration, while negatively influenced by the higher concentration of both cakes. The maximum manganese activity (88 IU/mL) and laccase activity (30 IU/mL) were achieved with a concentration of 5% supplementing GSC with wheat straw. The current investigation indicates that a lower concentration of GSC improved the organic C and N of the substrate, which has enhanced the production, BE and enzyme activity of MnP and laccase. Hence, lower concentrations of GSC are recommended for the process of oyster mushroom cultivation and future studies to achieve better yield and BE of mushrooms.

Key words: Groundnut seed cake, Ligninolytic enzymes, Neem seed cake, Pleurotus florida, Wheat straw, Yield