The production of extracellular mucilaginous material (ECMM) in two wood-rotting basidiomycetes is affected by growth conditions

Abstract

The ability of two wood-decay basidiomycetes to produce extracellular mucilaginous material (ECMM) and its relationship with total biomass production has been investigated. Growth and ECMM production by the white-rot fungus Coriolus versicolor and the brown-rot fungus Gloeophyllum trabeum were assessed in liquid culture under different nutritional and environmental conditions. Nutritional, pH and temperature factors all influenced significantly the proportion of ECMM in the total biomass produced. When total biomass production was reduced due to unfavorable growth conditions (stress), the proportion of ECMM in the biomass was elevated. The results are discussed with regard to the possible role(s) of ECMM in the responses of these fungi to stress.

• Coriolus versicolor
• extracellular mucilaginous material (ECMM)
• Gloeophyllum trabeum
• growth conditions

We thank the BBSRC and Arch Timber Protection Ltd. for financial support for the doctoral research of the first author. We also thank Prof. Jean-Paul Joseleau for his helpful advice on carbohydrate chemistry.