Investigation of stimulated growth effect using pulsed cold atmospheric plasma treatment on Ganoderma lucidum

Abstract

AbstractCold atmospheric plasma (CAP) driven by pulsed high-voltage power has specific advantages in various fields, such as the growth promotion of edible fungi in plasma agriculture. Compared with other strains,Ganoderma lucidumhas the significant advantage of high medicinal value, but the shortcomings of low yield, long growth cycle, and an uneven market quality. In this study,Ganoderma lucidumwas treated with a CAP powered by a homemade pulsed high-voltage power supply. Three groups ofGanoderma lucidumwere treated under different conditions. The stalk lengths and pileus areas ofGanoderma lucidumwere recorded to evaluate growth status. Results showed that treatment frequency affected growth status considerably.Ganoderma lucidumwas treated with 40 s plasma once a week and showed an improved growth status with a 33.63% increase in average stalk length and a 28% increase in the number of individuals whose pileus areas was greater than the average. Meanwhile, the growth speed was accelerated. However, treatment at an excessive frequency would damage and slow down the growth ofGanoderma lucidum.