Optimizing composting and enhancing Agaricus bisporus yield through thermotolerant bacterial inoculation

Abstract

This study evaluates the impact of thermotolerant bacterial inoculation on composting processes and the cultivation of Agaricus bisporus. The inoculation of compost substrates with selected strains, including Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus licheniformis, enhanced organic matter decomposition and nitrogen transformation under thermophilic conditions. The treated compost achieved a faster reduction in the carbon- to-nitrogen (C/N) ratio (from 43.1 to 18.1) compared to untreated compost (from 43.1 to 23.4), indicating accelerated maturity. Ammonia emissions were reduced by 40%, and nitrogen retention was significantly improved. Additionally, the inoculated compost exhibited higher moisture content (65.32% vs. 52.09%) and electrical conductivity (431.00 mmhos/cm vs. 387.00 mmhos/cm), reflecting superior physicochemical properties. These enhancements translated to agricultural benefits, including faster mycelial colonization (98% vs. 74%), earlier harvest readiness (18 days vs. 20 days), and higher mushroom yields (18.44 kg/q vs. 12.60 kg/q), representing a 46.35% increase. The inoculated compost also supported the production of larger fruiting bodies (10.34 g vs. 8.07 g) and more pinheads per bag (8 vs. 3). These findings underscore the efficacy of thermotolerant bacterial inoculants as a sustainable solution for integrated organic waste management and agricultural productivity enhancement.