This paper reports the influence of culture medium and pH in the radial growth and growth rate of saprobic
(Leucopaxillus giganteus) and ectomycorrhizal
(Lactarius deliciosus and Suillus luteus) edible mushrooms
mycelium. Leucopaxillus species are used in
chemical industry for extraction of clitocybin antibiotic
and Lactarius deliciosus and S. luteus are highly consumed
and commercialized in Trás-os-Montes region
(Northeast of Portugal).
Methods. Two different solid culture media (Melin-
Norkans, MMN and Potato Dextrose Agar, PDA) and two
pH values (5 and 6) were tested in order to achieve the
best conditions to mycelium growth.
Results. The pH had no influence in its morphological
characteristics, while the culture medium only affected
S. luteus mycelium. For all the tested conditions, the
growth rate of Leucopaxillus giganteus mycelium was
significantly higher (P<0.05) than the growth rate of
ectomycorrhizal mushrooms mycelium.
Conclusion. The pH had a significantly influence in the
growth of Leucopaxillus giganteus and S. luteus when
PDA medium was used, and MMN proved to be a better
culture medium for Lactarius deliciosus and S. luteus
mycelia growth
