Growth inhibition in co-cultivation of Cyclocybe aegerita and Hericium erinaceus mushrooms

Mushroom production relies heavily on compost and other substrates to grow and maintain fungal cultures. Large scale production of mushrooms can be achieved in specialized trays and grow rooms, however small-scale production of specialty mushrooms like lions mane (Hericium erinaceus) and pioppino mushrooms (Cyclocybe aegerita) relies on inoculation of small blocks of mushroom substrate in polypropylene bags, leaving spent mushroom substrate after production. Co-cultivation of mushrooms has been explored for the generation of novel secondary metabolites, however there is relatively little information about the effects of co-cultivation on yield. Our objective was to co-cultivate H. erinaceus and C. aegerita in the same bag and compare the overall colonization and yield with single inoculation bags. Overall, there was slower colonization and a significant reduction in the weight of harvested mushrooms from the mixed inoculation bag compared to the single inoculation bags, as well as a higher risk of contamination. We continue to explore new ways to improve the economic and environmental sustainability of mushroom production.