Deciphering the yield limitation mechanisms in Pleurotus eryngii cultivation: A comparative study on red vs white corncob substrates

From the paper

Abstract

Asia's massive agricultural residues pose environmental challenges, yet their use in Pleurotus eryngii cultivation offers sustainable solutions. Red and white corncobs, despite structural similarities, exhibit distinct lignocellulose and bioactive profiles, influencing mushroom yield and nutrition. Substrates with red (R1/R2) or white (W1/W2) corncobs (58 %–29 % ratios) and sawdust controls (CK) were compared. Mycelial growth, enzymatic activity (laccase, cellulase, xylanase), agronomic traits (yield, biological efficiency), and fruiting body nutrition (protein, sugars) were quantified alongside substrate degradation via SEM. Red corncob substrates accelerated mycelial colonization (approximately 20 % faster cycle), achieving higher total yield (6041.29 g vs. CK 4557.91 g) and sugar accumulation (473.93 mg/g). White corncob substrates yielded protein-rich fruiting bodies (259.31 g/kg) with elevated nitrogen and ash. Enzymatic and SEM analyses confirmed enhanced hemicellulose degradation in red corncobs versus lignin-driven laccase induction in white variants. A trade-off exists: red corncobs optimize yield/speed, while white enhances nutrition. Strategic blending could harmonize these benefits, enabling sustainable sawdust substitution for circular agriculture.