Comprehending Mycelium
Mycelium operates as the fungal equivalent of a digestive system for mushrooms, seeking out and processing nutrients into a digestible form for the fungus. As a byproduct, it enriches the surrounding soil, creating a fertile biomass that serves as excellent mulch for gardening.
Mycelium networks are also crucial to the wellbeing and development of terrestrial plants, including trees. For example, a symbiotic relationship exists between tree roots and fungi where the tree supplies the fungi with sugars, and in return, the fungi provide essential minerals such as nitrogen and phosphorus. You can learn more about this relationship here.
Interestingly, mycelium networks function like an underground communication network for plants, mirroring our brain’s neural networks. Recent 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 helps maintain soil health by decomposing organic matter and neutralizing pollutants.
If cultivating magic mushrooms piques your interest, obtaining a solid grasp of mycelium’s growth is imperative. While the cultivation process may be daunting for novices, understanding mycelium is a vital first step. While you can always buy mushrooms from Magic Mush Canada online, learning about mycelium can enrich your cultivation journey.
The Developmental Journey of Mycelium
When fungal spores find a favorable growth environment, they initiate the formation of two kinds of mycelium. The first, known as primary or monokaryotic mycelium, has a single nucleus in each cell and is usually invisible to the eye. The second type, termed secondary or dikaryotic mycelium, is visible and holds two nuclei per cell.
The lifecycle of fungal spores commences with germination. The first stage, or primary mycelium, is termed as monokaryotic mycelium. When this mycelium intersects with another compatible one, they fuse to create the second stage, named as the dikaryotic mycelium. This secondary mycelium possesses the ability to generate mushrooms or sclerotia.
Different Types of Mycelia
There are three distinct types of mycelia, two of which are considered signs of successful cultivation.
- Rhizomorphic mycelia have a string-like extension. Identifying them is straightforward due to their structure, which is composed of units called hyphae. Rhizomorphs are a network of grouped hyphae. The rhizomorphic mycelia spread initially and then transmit chemical signals back to the colony indicating that the area ahead is suitable for nutrient supply. The rest of the mycelia consequently move in the same direction. The hyphae at the front of the rhizomorphic mycelia release peroxidase, a substance that breaks down the material ahead for nourishment. The hyphae then spread across the material, dispersing the nutrients throughout the colony. Many cultivators prefer rhizomorphic mycelia due to their increased propensity for mushroom production as they sprout from the substrate.
- Tomentose, or “Fluffy” mycelia, bear more similarities with Rhizomorphic mycelia than differences. However, the way the fluffy mycelia strands are arranged is distinct. While the strands may not be instantly visible, they are certainly there. Their cotton-ball-like appearance suggests that the strands are bundled together. The development of your mycelia into tomentose or rhizomorphic traits is largely dependent on the cultivation conditions. Cultivators continue to debate whether the type of mycelia impacts the growth rate or the yield.
- Aerial mycelia appear when the cultivation conditions are less than ideal. In these circumstances, the mycelia tend to grow outward instead of spreading across the medium or forming a ball. This type of mycelia, often mistaken for bacterial infection, can impede your mushroom cultivation, leading to smaller, weaker mushrooms. Aerial mycelia typically arise due to inadequate fresh air exchange and excessive humidity.
Is it Mould or Mycelium?
It’s essential to distinguish between mould and mycelium. If you notice green, blue, grey, or black patches on or in your fruiting box, it’s likely that your culture is contaminated. Discolouration is the primary indicator. Blue spots may show up, but they could simply be bruises.
Cobweb moulds are typically quite conspicuous. Instead of the bright The Mycelium is typically characterized by its greyish-white color and a distinct stringy, fluffy texture. While it’s important to note that cobweb and green moulds are not detrimental to human health, they can adversely impact the health of your mushrooms.
Magic Mush Canada: Your Ultimate Mushroom Information Guide
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