Bacterial Rot of Paddy Straw Mushroom and its Management

Background: Paddy straw mushroom is widely cultivated in Odisha for their unique aroma, texture and growth habit. Bacterial diseases contributed to low production and storability of Volvariella sp. So the present study was carried out to identify the pathogen and undertake suitable measures. Methods: A study was undertaken on the bacterial disease of Volvariella sp. incited by bacterium. Different types of symptoms associated with marketable mushroom buds of Volvariella sp. leading to rotting of the buds within 24-48 hours of harvest were recorded. Fourteen plant extracts and twelve antibiotics were tested against the bacterium infecting Volvariella sp. Result: Serratia marcescens found to be first report causing bacterial rot. Among the plant extracts evaluated, Trigonella foenum and Aloe barbadensis were found to be most effective in inhibiting the growth of bacterium with a 15 mm zone of inhibition in each case. Among the 12 antibiotics tested, Ciprofloxacin and cefaclor inhibited the growth of the bacterium with 50.3 mm and 65.6 mm zone of inhibition, respectively. Rest of the antibiotics differed in their action against the bacterial pathogen.