Demystifying Mycelium
Mycelium constitutes the root structure of fungi, acting as the fungi’s digestive system. It hunts for nutrients, transforms them into a digestible form for the fungus, and thereby nourishes the fungus. This process results in enriching the surrounding soil, creating a nutrient-dense biomass, which serves as an excellent mulch for gardening.
Apart from facilitating mushroom growth, mycelium networks are indispensable for the growth and health of many terrestrial plants, including trees. For example, tree roots form a symbiotic relationship with fungi, where the tree supplies the fungus with carbon in the form of sugars, and in exchange, the fungus provides the tree with vital minerals like nitrogen and phosphorus. Learn more about this symbiotic relationship here.
Intriguingly, mycelium networks function as an underground communication system among plants, akin to the neural networks in our brains. Recent scientific studies indicate that plants and trees may have rudimentary nervous systems that fungi could potentially influence, impacting processes such as communication, memory, and learning. Additionally, mycelium promotes soil health by decomposing decaying organic matter and detoxifying any pollutants present.
If you are keen on cultivating magic mushrooms, comprehending the growth of mycelium is vital. While the cultivation process may appear daunting for novices, understanding mycelium is a critical first step. Though you can always choose to buy mushrooms from Shrooms Near Me Canada online, learning about mycelium can enrich your cultivation experience.
Mycelium Growth Process
When fungal spores find a growth-friendly environment, they commence the development of two types of mycelium. The first type, known as primary or monokaryotic mycelium, is identified by a single nucleus in each cell and is usually invisible to the naked eye. The other type, referred to as secondary or dikaryotic mycelium, is visible and contains two nuclei in each cell.
When fungal spores germinate, they initiate the growth of the primary mycelium, also known as the monokaryotic mycelium. Upon encountering another monokaryotic mycelium of a compatible type, they can combine to create a secondary stage called the dikaryotic mycelium. It is this secondary mycelium that holds the potential to produce mushrooms or sclerotia.
Mycelium Classifications
Mycelia are categorized into three types, two of which signify successful cultivation.
- Rhizomorphic mycelia are characterized by their string-like extensions. Composed of units called hyphae, they form a network known as rhizomorphs. Rhizomorphic mycelia initially spread out and then send chemical signals back to the colony, indicating that the area ahead is fit for nutrient assimilation. The rest of the mycelia then move to follow. The leading hyphae of the rhizomorphic mycelia secrete peroxidase, an enzyme that breaks down the material ahead for nourishment. The hyphae then extend over the material, spreading the nutrients throughout the colony. Due to their increased potential for mushroom production, many cultivators favor rhizomorphic mycelia, which sprout from the substrate.
- Tomentose mycelia, or “Fluffy” mycelia, are quite similar to Rhizomorphic mycelia, but with a unique arrangement of their strands. While these strands might not be instantly visible, they are present, creating a cotton-ball-like appearance due to their clustering. The development of your mycelia into tomentose or rhizomorphic forms largely depends on the growing environment. There is an ongoing debate among cultivators about whether the mycelia type influences the growth rate or yield.
- Aerial mycelia develop under suboptimal growing conditions, growing outwards instead of spreading across the medium or forming a ball. Often misidentified as bacterial infection, this type of mycelia can interfere with your mushroom cultivation, leading to smaller, weaker mushrooms. Aerial mycelia typically arise due to inadequate fresh air exchange and excessive humidity.
Mould or Mycelium?
It is essential to distinguish between mould and mycelium. If green, blue, grey, or black patches appear on or inside your fruiting box, it is likely that your culture is contaminated. Discoloration is the main indicator. Although blue spots may appear, they could simply be bruises.
Cobweb moulds are typically quite noticeable. Instead of the bright The white portion of Mycelium usually presents a greyish tone and features a fluffy, filamentous texture. While cobweb and green moulds pose no threat to human health, they may adversely impact the vitality of your mushrooms.
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