![]() Several companies (e.g., Gourmet Mushrooms Inc.) then successfully grew it in the United States. However, due to the complex life cycle of this genus and a limited understanding of the factors affecting the fruiting process, the first report on indoor morel cultivation was only published in 1982 by Ower, followed by Ower et al. For over a century, efforts have been made to cultivate them. These edible mushrooms are mostly harvested from their natural habitat. Morchella species mushrooms (morels) (Ascomycota, Pezizales) are known for their delicate taste and aroma and for their wide range of antioxidant and health-related biological activities. This is the first report of an infection of indoor-cultivated mushroom and the first showing P. lilacinum spores resulted in its browning and deterioration. Inoculation of a healthy primordium with P. Inoculation of Morchella colony on agar plat with the isolated fungus caused browning and inhibition of mycelial growth. Molecular identification using partial large subunit 28S ribosomal DNA and rRNA internal transcribed spacer sequences identified the fungus as Purpureocillium lilacinum. The isolation of a fungal contaminant from the infected mushroom revealed small colonies with a pinkish spore zone on potato dextrose agar medium. The mushroom initials turned brown, were covered with a dense white mycelium of a foreign fungus and were disintegrated soon after. ![]() ![]() ![]() Infection of indoor-cultivated Morchella rufobrunnea initials (primordia) occurred at our research facilities in Israel. The cultivation of morel mushrooms ( Morchella spp.) outdoors or in controlled indoor systems is a relatively new practice, and infections are beginning to be observed. ![]()
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