Effect of environmental factors on the yield of selected mushroom species growing in two different agro ecological zones of Pakistan

Mushrooms are a rich source of protein and vitamins as human food. In view of the growing importance of mushroom in Pakistan, a research study was initiated with the objective to examine the suitability of Oyster mushroom cultivation and to compare the growth and yield of Oyster mushroom in two different areas (Peshawar and Swat, North-West region of Pakistan) with different ecological conditions. Spawn running time, number of crops, stalk height, stalk diameter, cap size, fresh weight, number of production days, and the interval in days between the time of bag opening and the time of starting fruiting bodies formation were among the important parameters investigated in the current study. Stalk height, stalk diameter, cap size and fresh weight of mushrooms were found higher in Peshawar region as compared to those growing in Swat region. On the other side, the spawn running time, formation of fruiting bodies and the number of productions were higher in Swat region as compared to the mushroom under study in Peshawar region. Mild winter temperatures of Peshawar region, and low summer temperatures in Swat, were found most suitable for growth and yield of Pleurotus ostreatus.