Solved 2025: FYUG Even Semester Exam, 2025 BOTANY (2nd Semester) Mushroom Cultivation (BOTSEC-151)

Question 1 (Objective) [1x3=3 Marks]

(a) Name a mushroom toxin.

Answer: α-amanitin (found in Amanita phalloides).

(b) What is Agaricus?

Answer: Agaricus is a genus of mushrooms containing both edible and poisonous species, including the common button mushroom (Agaricus bisporus).

(c) What do you mean by 'toadstools'?

Answer: 'Toadstools' is a common term used for poisonous mushrooms that are often brightly colored and inedible.

(d) What is paddy straw mushroom?

Answer: It refers to Volvariella volvacea, a species of edible mushroom cultivated on rice straw in subtropical regions.

Question 2(a) [2 Marks]

Write a note on medicinal value of edible mushrooms.

Immune System Support: Mushrooms like Reishi and Shiitake contain beta-glucans that boost immunity.

Antioxidant Properties: They contain ergothioneine, which helps reduce oxidative stress.

Anti-cancer potential: Certain compounds are studied for inhibiting tumor growth.

Question 3(a) [5 Marks]

Give a detailed account of nutritional value of edible mushrooms.

Mushrooms are considered "superfoods" due to their unique nutritional profile:

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Proteins: High protein content (20-35% on dry weight basis) containing all essential amino acids.[span_19](end_span)

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Vitamins: Rich source of B-vitamins (B2, B3, B5) and the only vegan source of Vitamin D.[span_21](end_span)

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Minerals: Contain significant amounts of Selenium, Potassium, Phosphorus, and Copper.[span_23](end_span)

Low Calorie: Very low in fats and carbohydrates, making them ideal for weight management and diabetic patients.

Fiber: High crude fiber content aids digestion and heart health.

UNIT-II

Question 6(a) [5 Marks]

Give a detailed account of pure culture.

Pure Culture: A population of cells or multicellular organisms growing in the absence of other species or types.

In mushroom cultivation, pure culture is essential for producing high-quality spawn:

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Isolation: Obtained using tissue culture from a healthy mushroom fruiting body or spore culture.[span_33](end_span)

Media: Typically grown on Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) or Malt Extract Agar (MEA).

Maintenance: Requires strict aseptic conditions to prevent contamination by molds or bacteria.

Purpose: Ensures the genetic uniformity and vigor of the cultivated mushroom.

UNIT-III

Question 9(a) [5 Marks]

Give an account of low-cost technology in mushroom production.

Low-cost technology makes mushroom farming accessible to small-scale farmers:

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Substrate: Using locally available agricultural waste like paddy straw, maize straw, or sugarcane trash.[span_41](end_span)

Housing: Utilizing thatched houses or bamboo structures to maintain humidity and temperature naturally.

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Sterilization: Using low-cost stoves for boiling substrate instead of expensive autoclaves.[span_44](end_span)

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Spawn: Community-based spawn production centers to reduce transportation costs.[span_46](end_span)

UNIT-IV

Question 12(a) [5 Marks]

Give an illustrated account of long-term storage of mushrooms.

Long-term storage is vital to handle the highly perishable nature of mushrooms:

Drying/Dehydration: Sun-drying or mechanical drying to reduce moisture below 10%.

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Canning: Storing in brine solution within tin cans for 1-2 years of shelf life.[span_55](end_span)

Freezing: Blanching followed by quick-freezing at -18°C.

Pickling: Preserving in vinegar or oil with spices.

UNIT-V

Question 15(a) [5 Marks]

Give a detailed account of mushroom research centres in India.

India has a robust institutional framework for mushroom research:

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Directorate of Mushroom Research (DMR): Located in Solan, Himachal Pradesh, it is the national nodal center.[span_62](end_span)

All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Mushrooms: Coordinates research across various state agricultural universities.

IIHR: Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bengaluru, works on tropical mushroom varieties.

North-East Centers: Specialized centers in Assam and Meghalaya focus on indigenous species like Pleurotus.

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Exam Tips

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Definitions: Always start answers for 'Pure Culture' or 'Composting' with a formal definition for full marks.[span_67](end_span)

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Examples: When asked for nutritional value, mention specific vitamins like B-complex or minerals like Selenium.[span_69](end_span)

Local Context: For NE India students, mentioning the Umiam center adds value to Unit V answers.

Common Mistakes

Confusing 'Spawn' with 'Spores'. (Spawn is the 'seed' which is mycelium on grain)[span_72](start_span).

Mixing up short-term (refrigeration) and long-term (canning/drying) storage methods.[span_72](end_span)

Important Formulas/Facts

Protein Content: 20-35% (Dry Weight).

Pass Marks: 20 out of 50.

Answer Presentation Strategy

For 5-mark questions, use the "Definition → Points → Conclusion" format. For storage and cultivation, flowcharts or diagram placeholders significantly improve scoring potential.

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