Dodge, Reagan; Backman, Talia (Utah Valley University)
Faculty Advisor: Zahn, Geoffrey (Utah Valley University, Biology)
We assessed the ability of Pleurotus ostreatus, Oyster mushroom, to efficiently decompose waste products containing cellulose. As common pollutants are comprised of cellulose it is important to understand organisms that have cellulolytic enzymes such as P. ostreatus. The fungus P. ostreatus was introduced to the substrates of paper textiles, peanut shells, and livestock manure. After each treatment, the yield of mushroom production and remaining substrate was measured. As these substrates have been broken down during mushroom production they can be sold as inorganic fertilizer or compost. As well, Oyster mushrooms can be purchased and enjoyed in meals. Mushroom cultivation is a multi-billion dollar industry, and excessive wastes are a strain on the environment. By understanding what cellulase substrates produce the greatest yields we can eliminate waste all while increasing profits. Oh, and eating great mushrooms!