Optimization of Mycelia Growth and Immobilization of Pleurotus Ostreatus Cells for Enhanced Biotechnological Applications

Abstract

Pleurotus ostreatus is known for its culinary and medicinal characteristics, with potential use in biotechnology. This research attempts to optimise mycelia growth and find effective approaches for immobilising them. The jars containing the substrate were inoculated with solid and liquid inoculums. Incubation at 21°C for 10 days in dark conditions allowed for a comparison of the time required for each inoculum type to attain complete substrate covering. After 10 days of incubation, it was discovered that the jar inoculated with liquid inoculum had 100% mycelial coverage, while the jar inoculated with solid inoculum had only 85% mycelial coverage. P. ostreatus cells were successfully immobilised using sodium alginate and calcium chloride solutions. After drying, the beads generated by dropping sodium alginate and fungal broth into a calcium chloride solution were round, glossy, and off white in colour. The research has potential applications in bioremediation, medicines, food technology, and environmental sustainability. This project aims to use Pleurotus ostreatus biotechnological potential to offer new and environmentally friendly solutions to current challenges.