LAUSR

Abstract Auricularia cornea cv. Yu Muer is a new edible mushroom with high nutritional value and economic value. In this study, we determined the effect of maize straw (MS) and wheat bran (WB) on the agronomic traits and nutritional content of A. cornea cv. Yu Muer, Thirteen substrate formulations of WB and MS, supplemented with oak sawdust, were compared. The addition of 15% WB to sawdust and a C/N ratio of 55-70 was found optimal for the cultivation of A. cornea cv. Yu Muer. The first flush yield was significantly higher for substrate C1 containing only MS (83%). The mushroom cultivated on substrate C4 (25% MS + 29.05% CS + 29.05% FS) had the highest yield (521.26 g) and biological efficiency (130%) compared to control. The protein content ranged from 10-12.5 g/100 g and total polysaccharide content from 24-32 g/100 g. Substrate formulas with different MS proportions had a significant increase in crude protein, crude fiber, total polysaccharides, crude fat, and ash content. The amount of MS added was positively correlated with protein and ash content of mushrooms. Based on agronomic traits and nutrient contents, MS could be used as a substitute for sawdust in cultivating A. cornea cv. Yu Muer.