Abstract

Growth requirements of Psathyrella atroumbonata Pegler, a Nigeria edible mushroom were studied. Glucose was the best carbon source. This was followed by maltose, starch and manitol in that order. The least growth was observed in lactose and cellulose. Yeast extract which is organic nitrogen proved to be the best nitrogen source. P. atroumbonata utilizes organic nitrogen better than inorganic nitrogen. Thiamine was the best vitamin among the vitamins tested. This was followed by nicotinic acid riboflavin. The least growth was observed in folic acid. Asparagine proved best among the amino acids tested followed by aspartic acid and the least stimulatory amino acid was glycine. Carbon to nitrogen ratio of 4: 1 and 1: 4 stimulated good mycelial growth. The implication of these results is discussed in relation to the growth of P. atroumbonata.

Key words: Studies, vegetative growth, requirement, Psathyrella atroumbonata,edible mushroom