Effect of carbon, nitrogen and mineral sources on growth of Psathyerella atroumbonata (Pegler), a Nigerian edible mushroom

Effect of simple organic, inorganic and complex compounds on growth of Psathyerella atroumbonata (Pegler), a Nigerian edible mushroom, were carried out. A number of carbon compounds were utilised and glucose stimulated the best growth followed in order by mannose, cellulose and mannitol. Sorbose and myo-inositol enhanced the least growth. In the series of tested nitrogen sources, yeast extract was the most utilisable. Significant growth was supported by malt extract and l-tryptophan while poorest growth was recorded with sodium nitrate and ammonium sulphate. The best carbon/nitrogen ratio was 2:3 but the least utilised ratio was 5:1. Calcium and magnesium were the best macro-elements while micro-elements (copper and zinc) enhanced optimum growth.