Deciphering Mycelium
Mycelium primarily serves as the fungi’s digestive organ, acting as the mushroom’s nutrient seeker and processor. It absorbs nutrients, nourishing the fungi in the process. Furthermore, it enriches the soil around it, creating nutrient-rich biomass that serves as excellent mulch for gardening.
Beyond facilitating mushroom growth, mycelium networks also play a critical role in the growth and health of many land-based plants, including trees. For example, tree roots and fungi engage in a symbiotic relationship where the tree supplies the fungus with sugar-based carbon, and in return, the fungus provides the tree with vital minerals like nitrogen and phosphorus. Discover more about this fascinating relationship here.
Intriguingly, mycelium networks function as an underground plant communication system, akin to our brain’s neural networks. Recent scientific studies suggest that plants and trees may have rudimentary nervous systems that fungi might influence, impacting functions such as communication, memory, and learning. Moreover, mycelium contributes to soil health by decomposing organic matter and neutralizing any pollutants found.
If you’re considering growing magic mushrooms, it’s essential to understand mycelium’s role. While mushroom cultivation can be daunting for beginners, learning about mycelium is a vital first step. You can always choose to buy mushrooms from Shroom Delivery Canada online, but understanding mycelium can enrich your cultivation journey.
Mycelium’s Growth Cycle
Upon finding a suitable growth environment, fungal spores kickstart the development of two types of mycelium. The primary, or monokaryotic mycelium, consists of cells with a single nucleus and is usually invisible to the naked eye. The secondary, or dikaryotic mycelium, is visible and contains cells with two nuclei.
When fungal spores germinate, they form what is known as a monokaryotic mycelium, the initial or primary stage of fungal growth. Upon encountering another compatible monokaryotic mycelium, they can combine to create a dikaryotic mycelium, the second growth stage. It’s this secondary mycelium that has the potential to yield mushrooms or sclerotia.
Types of Mycelia
Mycelia can be classified into three categories, two of which are signs of successful cultivation.
- Rhizomorphic mycelia are identifiable by their string-like extensions. Like all mycelia, they’re made up of components called hyphae. Rhizomorphs are a network of grouped hyphae. Rhizomorphic mycelia first spread out, then relay chemical signals to the colony indicating that the area ahead is suitable for nutrient collection. The rest of the mycelia then follow. The hyphae at the tip of the rhizomorphic mycelia release peroxidase, an enzyme that breaks down the material ahead for nourishment. The hyphae then spread over the material, distributing the nutrients to the entire colony. Many cultivators favor rhizomorphic mycelia because of their potential for mushroom production as they germinate from the substrate.
- Tomentose, or “Fluffy” mycelia, have many similarities with Rhizomorphic mycelia, but their strand arrangement is distinct. Though the strands may not be immediately apparent, they are present. Their cottony appearance signifies that the strands are bundled together. Whether your mycelia exhibit tomentose or rhizomorphic characteristics largely depends on the growth environment. There’s an ongoing debate among cultivators about whether the type of mycelia affects the growth rate or yield.
- Aerial mycelia develop when the growing conditions are less than ideal. In such cases, the mycelia tend to grow outward rather than spreading across the medium or forming a ball. Often mistaken for bacterial contamination, this type of mycelia can interfere with your mushroom cultivation, leading to smaller, weaker mushrooms. Aerial mycelia usually occur due to inadequate fresh air exchange and excessive humidity.
Mold or Mycelium?
It’s essential to distinguish between mold and mycelium. If you notice green, blue, gray, or black patches on or inside your fruiting box, it’s likely contaminated. Color change is the main indicator. Although blue spots might appear, they could just be bruises.
Cobweb molds are usually quite noticeable. Instead of the bright
The Mycelium usually appears with a greyish tint and a fluffy, stringy texture. Although cobweb moulds and green moulds do not pose a threat to human health, they can detrimentally affect the wellbeing of your mushrooms.
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