Innovative scientists at Bihar Agricultural University have introduced a vibrant pink oyster mushroom variety that resists diseases and boasts a remarkably quick harvest cycle of just 20-25 days, empowering farmers with faster financial returns. Flourishing in warm, humid environments, it cleverly utilizes agricultural waste and stands out in the market due to its striking color and delicious flavor.
Bhagalpur: With the aim of diversifying mushroom cultivation and expanding opportunities in the farming sector, scientists at Bihar Agricultural University (BAU), Bhagalpur, have developed a disease-resistant pink oyster mushroom with a short crop cycle of 20-25 days, enabling quicker harvesting and faster returns on investment (FROI) for farmers.The pink mushroom project (PMP) at BAU developed the variety under the guidance of vice chancellor D R Singh with scientist Sneha Shikha as the lead researcher.Shikha said the mushroom is well suited to warm climatic conditions and grows effectively at around 30°C with high humidity. “This makes it a suitable option for cultivation even during warmer months, especially in regions with hot and humid conditions like Bihar,” she said, adding that its improved yield stability makes it more suitable than conventional strains.She said the variety efficiently utilises lignocellulosic substrates such as paddy and wheat residues, has high humidity tolerance (80-90%) and enjoys strong market value due to its distinct colour and flavour. “Opting for cultivating pink oyster mushroom will highly improve profitability of the farmers besides extending the cultivation window,” she added.Singh said the research focused on productivity, growth behaviour across agricultural residues, disease resistance and commercial viability.
He added that efforts are also being made to develop production techniques and disseminate knowledge through training and extension activities.“Comparative assessment with other commonly cultivated oyster mushroom varieties is also being encouraged to generate reliable information on its productivity and profitability for the farmers,” he said, adding that spawns will be made available to farmers and stakeholders.He said the variety stands out for its attractive pink colour, short cultivation period and taste, making it appealing in local markets. “With a short crop cycle of around 20-25 days, it enables quick harvesting and offers faster returns,” Singh said, adding the initiative is expected to promote income generation and mushroom-based cottage industries among farmers, rural youth and women.
