title: Alternative to peat for Agaricus brasiliensis yield.
abstract: Casing layer is one of the most important components of Agaricus spp. production and it directly affects mushroom productivity, size and mass. The aim of this study was to evaluate potential raw materials as a casing layer and their effect on Agaricus brasiliensis productivity. Raw materials from Brazil with potential use were selected and characterized, and the most promising ones were tested as casing layers for mushroom yield. Evaluated raw materials included lime schist, vermiculite, eucalyptus sawdust, sand, São Paulo peat, Santa Catarina peat, subsoil and charcoal. Particle size, porosity and water absorption in relation to mushroom yield for casing layers were determined. Lime schist, an alternate casing layer to peat, is presented and the effects of the casing layer on the mushroom yield are discussed.
authors.affiliation: Universidade Paranaense, Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, CEP 87.502-210, Umuarama-PR, Brazil.
authors.forename: Nelson Barros
authors.initials: NB
authors.lastname: Colauto
authors.forename: Adriano Reis
authors.initials: AR
authors.lastname: da Silveira
authors.forename: Augusto Ferreira
authors.initials: AF
authors.lastname: da Eira
authors.forename: Giani Andrea
authors.initials: GA
authors.lastname: Linde
mesh_terms: D000364:Agaricus; D012987:Soil
chemical_list: D012987:Soil