Decoding Mycelium
Mycelium, the root-like structure of fungi, essentially acts as the digestive system for mushrooms. It hunts for nutrients, breaks them down into a digestible form for the fungus, and consequently nourishes the fungus. This process also enriches the soil around it, providing crucial nutrients for other plants and generating a nutrient-rich biomass that serves as excellent mulch for gardening.
Beyond their contribution to the growth of mushrooms, the networks of mycelium are essential for the well-being and development of many land-based plants, inclusive of trees. As an example, tree roots form a mutualistic relationship with fungi: the tree offers the fungus carbon in the form of sugars, and reciprocally, 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 signaling system among plants, bearing similarities with the neural networks in our brains. Recent scientific studies have indicated that plants and trees might have rudimentary nervous systems that fungi might potentially impact, influencing processes such as communication, memory, and learning. Furthermore, mycelium enhances soil health by decomposing decaying organic matter and purifying any pollutants present.
If you have an interest in growing magic mushrooms, grasping the behavior of mycelium is crucial. While the cultivation process might pose challenges for novices, comprehending mycelium is a significant initial step. While you can always opt to buy mushrooms from Magic Mushies Canada online, acquiring knowledge about mycelium can enhance your cultivation journey.
Mycelium’s Growth Cycle
Upon encountering a suitable environment, fungal spores begin to develop two variants of mycelium. The first variant, referred to as primary or monokaryotic mycelium, is distinguished by each cell having a single nucleus. This type of mycelium is typically invisible to the naked eye. The second variant, termed secondary or dikaryotic mycelium, is visible and comprises two nuclei in each cell.
When fungal spores germinate, they begin to form what is known as a monokaryotic mycelium, or primary mycelium. When this monokaryotic mycelium encounters another compatible one, they can combine to create a dikaryotic mycelium, which is the second stage. It’s this secondary mycelium that has the ability to generate mushrooms or sclerotia.
Mycelium Categories
There are three main types of mycelia, two of which are signs of successful cultivation.
- Rhizomorphic mycelia take on a string-like extension. They are easily identifiable and, like all mycelia, are made up of units called hyphae. The rhizomorphs are a network of clustered hyphae. Rhizomorphic mycelia initially spread out, then relay chemical messages to the colony indicating that the area ahead is suitable for nutrient supply. The remaining mycelia then follow. The hyphae at the forefront of the rhizomorphic mycelia secrete peroxidase, an enzyme that breaks down the material ahead for food. The hyphae then expand over the material, distributing the nutrients throughout the colony. This type of mycelia is favored by many cultivators due to its increased probability of mushroom production as the Rhizomorphic mycelia sprout from the substrate.
- Tomentose, or “Fluffy” mycelia, bear many similarities to Rhizomorphic mycelia, but the layout of the fluffy mycelia strands is distinct. While the strands may not be instantly discernible, they are indeed there. Their cotton-ball-like appearance suggests that the strands are grouped together. The development of either tomentose or rhizomorphic traits in your mycelia largely depends on the growth environment. Cultivators continue to debate whether the type of mycelia influences the growth rate or yield.
- Aerial mycelia appear under suboptimal growing conditions. In such cases, the mycelia tend to grow outward rather than spread across the medium or form a ball. This type of mycelia, often misidentified as bacterial infection, can impede your mushroom cultivation, leading to weaker, smaller mushrooms. Aerial mycelia usually occur due to a lack of fresh air exchange and excessive humidity.
Is it Mould or Mycelium?
It’s critical to distinguish between mould and mycelium. If you observe green, blue, grey, or black patches on or in your fruiting box, it’s likely that your culture is contaminated. Colour change is a primary sign. Despite the presence of blue spots, they could simply be bruises.
Cobweb moulds are typically quite conspicuous. Instead of the bright The Mycelium typically sports a greyish shade and presents a fibrous, fluffy texture. While cobweb moulds and green moulds pose no harm to humans, they can detrimentally impact the health of your mushrooms.
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