Decoding the Mycelium
Mycelium, which forms the root structure of fungi, essentially acts as the fungi’s digestive system. It seeks and processes nutrients into a digestible form for the fungus, allowing it to grow. This process also enriches the surrounding soil by creating a nutrient-rich biomass that is an excellent choice for gardening mulch.
Mycelium networks play a crucial role in the growth and wellbeing of various land-based plants, including trees, apart from their role in mushroom growth. For example, there is a symbiotic relationship between tree roots and fungi, where the tree provides sugars (carbon) to the fungus, and the fungus reciprocates by providing essential minerals like nitrogen and phosphorus to the tree. To understand more about this relationship, click here.
Interestingly, mycelium networks act like a subterranean communication system among plants, similar to our brain’s neural networks. Recent scientific studies suggest that plants and trees might have rudimentary nervous systems which may be influenced by fungi, impacting functions such as communication, memory, and learning. Moreover, mycelium enhances soil health by breaking down decaying organic matter and neutralizing any pollutants.
If you’re keen on growing magic mushrooms, it’s fundamental to understand mycelium development. While the cultivation process could be a bit challenging for beginners, understanding mycelium is a vital first step. Even though buying mushrooms from Shroom Store Canada online is always an option, learning about mycelium can enrich your cultivation experience.
The Development Phases of Mycelium
When fungal spores find a suitable environment for growth, they begin to develop two kinds of mycelium. The first kind, referred to as primary or monokaryotic mycelium, is identified by the presence of one nucleus per cell and is typically invisible to the human eye. The second kind, known as secondary or dikaryotic mycelium, is visible and houses two nuclei in each cell.
When fungal spores germinate, they form a primary mycelium known as the monokaryotic mycelium. On encountering another compatible monokaryotic mycelium, they merge to create the second stage, the dikaryotic mycelium. This secondary mycelium is capable of generating mushrooms or sclerotia.
Mycelium Types
There are three types of mycelia, two of which indicate successful cultivation.
- Rhizomorphic mycelia resemble strings extending outward. Recognizable and composed of units called hyphae, these mycelia initially spread out, then relay chemical signals back to the colony indicating that the area ahead is ready for nutrient delivery. The rest of the mycelia follows. The leading hyphae of the rhizomorphic mycelia release peroxidase, an enzyme that breaks down the material ahead for consumption. As they extend over the material, the hyphae distribute the nutrients throughout the colony. Cultivators often prefer this type of mycelia due to the increased chance of mushroom production as Rhizomorphic mycelia sprout from the substrate.
- Tomentose, or “Fluffy” mycelia, closely resemble Rhizomorphic mycelia, but their strands have a unique arrangement. Although not immediately visible, these strands are present and appear clustered together, giving a cotton-ball-like appearance. The development of tomentose or rhizomorphic traits in your mycelia largely relies on the growing environment. There is an ongoing debate among cultivators about whether the type of mycelia influences the growth rate or harvest yield.
- Aerial mycelia appear when the growth conditions are less than ideal. In such cases, the mycelia grow outward rather than spreading across the medium or forming a cluster. Often mistaken for a bacterial infection, this type of mycelia can impede your mushroom cultivation, leading to smaller, weaker mushrooms. A lack of fresh air exchange and over-humidity typically cause the occurrence of aerial mycelia.
Mould or Mycelium: How to Differentiate?
Identifying the difference between mould and mycelium is vital. Green, blue, grey, or black patches in your fruiting box usually indicate contamination. Discolouration is the primary sign to watch for. However, blue spots may just be bruising.
Cobweb moulds are often conspicuous. Rather than the bright The Mycelium usually displays a grey-tinted white color and is characterized by its fibrous, fluffy texture. Although cobweb and green moulds pose no threat to human health, they can detrimentally impact the wellbeing of your mushrooms.
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