Molecular, morphological, chemical characterization, ideotypes identification, and genetic improvement of Indian Flammulina germplasm.

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BACKGROUND: Flammulina velutipes mushroom is well known for its nutritional qualities and pleasant taste. In India, mushroom breeding program is majorly focused on only three commercial mushrooms, viz. Agaricus bisporus, Pleurotus spp., and Lentinula edodes. However, despite high consumer demand of Flammulina, non-availability of commercial strains is one of the major limitations for the commercial cultivation in India. METHODS AND RESULTS: Morphological, molecular, and biochemical characterization of the twelve strains of Flammulina was performed. ITS-based sequencing analysis confirmed the identity. Agglomerative-morphological clustering analysis categorized twelve strains into four clusters. Moreover, SRAP marker-based genetic diversity analysis revealed similarity between DMRX-166 and DMRX-400. FTIR-based chemo-diversity analysis identified DMRO-1204 as highly diverse strain. Medicinal properties estimation indicates maximum β-glucan, antioxidant properties, and phenol content in DMRX-767 and DMRX-400. The best ideotypes selected based on traits were DMRX-400 and DMRO-1204 for superior yield. The strains DMRO-367, DMRO-368, and DMRO-369 were suitable for sporelessness. CONCLUSION: The findings of the study will be helpful in the breeding programs and to develop the high-yielding and nutritionally enriched strains to promote the commercial cultivation of this mushroom in India.