Mycelium

Mycelium is the vegetative part of a fungus, consisting of a network of thread-like structures called hyphae. Mycelium plays a key role in breaking down and digesting organic matter in the substrate, which allows the fungus to grow and produce mushrooms. When mycelium is introduced into a suitable substrate (such as sawdust, straw, or grain), it begins to grow and spread throughout the substrate, forming a network of hyphae that eventually give rise to the fruiting body (i.e., the mushroom).

Mycelium is also important for maintaining the genetic identity of the mushroom strain. When cloning mushrooms, a small piece of mycelium is taken from a desired strain and used to inoculate a new batch of substrate. As the mycelium grows and spreads throughout the substrate, it maintains the genetic characteristics of the original strain.

Mycelium is often grown and propagated using techniques such as grain spawn, agar, and liquid culture. Carefully controlling the growth conditions and environment is required to ensure that the mycelium remains healthy and robust.