INFLUENCE OF MAGNESIUM (Mg) SOURCE ON THE Cordyceps militaris (L.) MUSHROOM MYCELIUM GROWTH

Magnesium (Mg) is an element with a role in oxidation processes. The optimal concentration of magnesium for the development of fungi is associated with an optimal concentration of phosphorus (P), which through its essential constituents, is an important element for the existence of biological systems in nature through nucleic acids, phospholipids, phosphoglycerides, phytin and phosphates. Magnesium has a role in the activity of certain enzymes and in respiration, being a component of protein substances with a special importance for microorganisms being included in reducing and phosphorylating enzymes and for protein synthesis. In this study, magnesium sulphate (MgSO4), which is an accessible source of both magnesium and sulphur, as well as magnesium carbonate (MgCO3) were used as sources of magnesium, both being used in different concentrations in the growth medium. The culture medium or substrate influences the growth of the fungal mycelium, through the mineral, nutritive and stimulating substances in their composition. Using experimental culture media, an isolated tissue culture was performed from 2 strains of Cordyceps militaris (L.) fungus. The culture was performed in Petri dishes, incubated at a temperature of 24 ° C, aiming to increase the mycelium for 15 days. The highest increase was recorded by strain CI 32 with the addition of magnesium sulphate.