Abstract:
Oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus spp) are highly valued edible fungi, accounting for 25%
of global mushroom production, and are rich in protein (15-30% dry weight), essential
vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. However, commercial cultivation faces
challenges, including low biological efficiency, slow growth, and environmental
sensitivity, necessitating the development of improved strains through systematic
breeding approaches. This study examined six interspecific hybrid combinations
among six oyster mushroom types: Pleurotus ostreatus (American Oyster), P.
cystidiosus (Abalone), P. djamor (Pink Oyster), P. pulmonarius (Black Oyster), P. sajorcaju
(Bhutan Oyster), and P. ostreatus var. curly (Curly Oyster) to identify superior
hybrids for commercial-scale production. The experiment was conducted at the
Agriculture Research Station, Thelijjawila, Matara, Sri Lanka, using a Completely
Randomized Design (CRD) with 15 replicates per treatment. A total of six hybrid
combinations were developed: Bhutan × American Oyster (T1), Bhutan × Abalone (T2),
American Oyster × Curly (T3), Pink Oyster × Curly (T4), American Oyster × Black
Oyster (T5), and Abalone × Black Oyster (T6). Clamp connection microscopic
observation confirmed successful dikaryon formation. Marked variations (P < 0.001)
were noted among treatments regarding spawn run duration, fruiting initiation, yield,
stalk length, and cap diameter. T3 and T4 showed exceptional performance, attaining
the shortest spawn run (~26 days), the earliest fruiting (16-28 days), and the greatest
yields (83.71 g and 71.29 g), respectively. Performance variation was significant, with
84% range for spawn run time, 369% for fruiting start, and 187% for yield. Heritability
study revealed that a substantial genetic regulation of stalk length (R² = 85.34%) and
modest effect on yield (R² ≈ 60%), whereas cap diameter was predominantly
influenced by environmental factors (R² = 36.96%). T3 and T4 are endorsed for
commercial use owing to their enhanced productivity, swift growth, and reliability. The
findings confirmed that interspecific hybridization is an effective breeding strategy for
developing Pleurotus cultivars with enhanced biological efficiency and improved
cultivation potential.
