OPTIMIZATION OF SUBSTRATE COMPOSITION AND STERILIZATION METHODS FOR ENHANCING ECONOMIC EFFICIENCY OF OYSTER MUSHROOM (PLEUROTUS OSTREATUS) CULTIVATION IN UZBEKISTAN

The increasing demand for oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus) in dietary nutrition and their high export potential underscore the importance of optimizing cultivation technologies. This study aims to improve the economic efficiency of oyster mushroom production through the selection of optimal substrate components and sterilization methods. Three experiments were conducted: 1) selection of plant-based substrate components from furniture production waste (poplar, maple), 2) evaluation of autoclaving regimes (1-2 atm, 1-2 hours) and ethylene oxide fumigation on substrate sterilization, and 3) assessment of mycelium viability during storage on various grain substrates (wheat, barley, rye, millet). Results demonstrated that millet provides superior mycelial viability up to 7 months and higher contamination resistance. Ethylene oxide fumigation (1000 mg/m³ for 90 minutes) preserved substrate structure and ensured 100% colonization, increasing yields by 14.3% compared to autoclaved controls. This method reduced contamination by 15%, with stable yields of 3.2 kg per 10 kg substrate. The findings support millet-based substrates and ethylene oxide sterilization as effective solutions for improving the efficiency and sustainability of mushroom production in Uzbekistan.