Growing Ganoderma resinaceum (Reishi) Mycelial Mass on Coconut Water Culture

 

Layered mycelial mass

 

Overhead growth toward air exchange port

 

Harvested mycelial mass

Growing Ganoderma resinaceum (Reishi) Mycelial Mass on Coconut Water Culture Objective: To cultivate a robust mycelial mass of Ganoderma resinaceum, commonly known as Reishi, using a liquid culture of coconut water.

Materials:

1. Ganoderma resinaceum (Reishi) mycelium culture (sourced from MYCELIA)

2. Sterilized liquid culture medium (coconut water)

3. Sterilized glass containers or culture vessels

4. Sterile petri dishes or agar plates (optional)

5. Sterile utensils (scalpel, forceps, etc.)

6. Incubator or temperature-controlled environment

7. Protective clothing (gloves, lab coat, mask)

Procedure:

1. Prepare the liquid culture medium:

a. Sterilize the coconut water in a glass container (leave some space for expansion) by autoclaving or using a pressure cooker.

b. Allow the coconut water to cool down to room temperature.

2. Inoculation:

a. Using sterile techniques and utensils (bunsen burner, SAB or flow hood), transfer a small piece of the mycelium into the liquid culture medium in the glass container.

b. Secure the container with a breathable lid or cover to allow gas exchange.

3. Incubation:

a. Place the inoculated containers in a controlled environment such as an incubator set to the optimal temperature for Ganoderma resinaceum growth, typically around 25-28°C (77-82°F).

b. Ensure the environment is clean and free from contaminants.

c. Maintain in a dark space.

4. Observation and Maintenance:

a. Regularly monitor the growth of the mycelium within the liquid culture. The mycelium will appear as thread-like structures spreading throughout the medium.

b. Adjust the temperature and lighting conditions if required to optimize mycelial growth.

c. If contamination occurs, remove the contaminated culture to prevent further spread.

d. Maintain aseptic (sterile) techniques when handling the cultures and during any transfers or maintenance procedures.

5. Mycelial Mass Development:

a. As the mycelium expands and forms a mass, carefully observe the texture, color, and thickness.

b. It is recommended to periodically subculture or transfer a portion of the mycelium to fresh coconut water medium to maintain vitality and prevent senescence (aging / gene degeneration).

Note: The process of mycelial growth on coconut water culture may take several weeks to months depending on various factors, including temperature, strain, and initial inoculum density.