Optimal conditions for mycelial growth and nutritional values of the <i>Auricularia cornea</i>

Due to its edibility and therapeutic qualities, Auricularia Bull. (ear mushroom) is very significant and has a global distribution. A better technique in mushroom cultivation is needed due to the high demand for mushroom consumption and possibly maintaining enough supply throughout the year. In this study, three different Auricularia cornea isolates were subjected to four different tests to find the most suitable medium, temperatures, pH and substrates for spawning. The fruiting test and nutritional value analysis were also conducted. The results showed that A. cornea grew well on Rice Bran Sucrose Agar (RSA) followed by Malt Extract Agar (MEA) [0.1008 ± 0.0010 to 0.1722 ± 0.0143 g of dried mycelial weight]. The growth of three isolates performed best at a temperature of 25 °C at pH 5–7. Furthermore, the most favorable substrates for A. cornea growth were sorghum and paddy grain. However, sawdust (without any supplements) was the least effective. Moreover, the first primordia were observed on 20 ±3.04, 15 ± 3.13, and 26 ± 1.15 days, respectively. Therefore, these conditions can be considered for Auricularia culture from tissue culture and spawning production. The nutritional value analysis showed that the crude protein was 11.22% and 13.14%, fat (0.77% and 1.27%), crude fiber (19.71% and 22.43%) and carbohydrate (72.27% and 70.66%), respectively. Surprisingly, the carbohydrate found in this study was higher than other Auricularia spp. (14 –17%) and 2 – 3 times higher than other edible mushrooms.