Mycelium
Pronunciation: my-SEE-lee-um
Plural: mycelia
The vegetative network of thread-like hyphae that forms the main growing body of fungi. Mycelium digests nutrients, colonizes substrates, and eventually produces mushroom fruiting bodies.
Etymology
From Greek 'mykes' (fungus) + 'helos' (nail), referring to the nail-like appearance of early mushroom studies
Mycelium is the foundation of all mushroom cultivation. This white, thread-like network is the actual organism - mushrooms are just its fruiting bodies, like apples on a tree.
Understanding Mycelium Structure
Mycelium consists of countless microscopic threads called hyphae. These hyphae branch and merge, creating a complex network that can span vast areas in nature. In cultivation, we harness this growth to colonize prepared substrates.
Role in Cultivation
During cultivation, mycelium:
- Colonizes substrate by spreading through it
- Digests nutrients using enzymes
- Communicates through chemical signals
- Fruits when environmental conditions trigger reproduction
Stages of Mycelial Growth
- Germination: Spores produce initial hyphae
- Expansion: Rapid growth through substrate
- Consolidation: Network strengthens and thickens
- Fruiting: Energy redirected to mushroom production
Optimal Conditions
Mycelium thrives with:
- Temperature: 75-80°F for most species
- Humidity: 90-95% during colonization
- Gas exchange: Needs oxygen, produces CO2
- Darkness: Light can trigger premature fruiting
Common Issues
- Slow growth: Usually temperature or moisture related
- Sectoring: Genetic differences causing uneven growth
- Overlay: Too-dense surface growth preventing fruiting
- Contamination: Foreign organisms competing with mycelium
Understanding mycelium behavior is key to successful cultivation. Healthy, vigorous mycelium produces the best mushroom yields.
