1. Mushroom Genetic Resources
Supports the collection, identification, conservation and documentation of mushroom germplasm and genetic resources, including cultivated and specialty mushroom species.
Research Laboratories
Scientific laboratories and research infrastructure at ICAR–Directorate of Mushroom Research, Solan
ICAR-DMR has seven specialised research laboratories supporting mushroom science, cultivation technology, genetic improvement, crop protection, nutrition and post-harvest research. The Centre's infrastructure also includes a National Mushroom Gene Bank, spawn production facility, modern mushroom production facility and Agricultural Knowledge Management Unit (AKMU).
2. Molecular Genetics / Biotechnology
Supports molecular characterisation and biotechnology-based research, including DNA-based analysis, genetic identification and related laboratory investigations.
3. Crop Improvement
Focuses on evaluation and improvement of mushroom strains, including selection and development of high-yielding varieties with desirable quality and crop-performance traits.
4. Crop Production
Supports research on compost preparation, supplementation, casing materials, crop management and cultivation technologies for button, oyster, milky, shiitake and other mushrooms.
5. Crop Protection
Conducts research on mushroom pests, diseases and competitor moulds, and supports the development of integrated pest and disease management practices.
6. Crop Nutrition and Utilization
Supports research on mushroom nutritional quality, composition, utilization and the development of mushroom-based products and applications.
7. Post-harvest Technology
Focuses on mushroom quality and shelf life, preservation, packaging, processing and value-added products to improve post-harvest handling and utilization.
No laboratories match your search.
Major Research Infrastructure
Modern Mushroom Production Facility
A test-cum-demonstration facility with 13 climate-controlled growing rooms and a modern composting unit with bunkers and bulk chambers. It supports the development and demonstration of advanced mushroom production technologies.
National Mushroom Gene Bank
Includes cryopreservation, freeze-drying and safe-deposit facilities for mushroom cultures. The collection includes accessions of commercial strains of Agaricus, Pleurotus, Lentinula, Volvariella, Calocybe, Ganoderma and Auricularia.
Spawn Production Facility
Produces mother spawn and planting spawn of popular cultivated mushrooms and provides practical training in spawn production to growers and entrepreneurs.
Agricultural Knowledge Management Unit (AKMU)
Provides institutional IT and knowledge-management support, including networked computers, campus Wi-Fi, high-speed NKN internet access, printing and scanning facilities, and access to scientific literature resources.
Major Laboratory Equipment and Instruments
- High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)
- Spectrophotometers
- High-resolution microscopes with epifluorescence
- Computerised image documentation systems
- DNA fluorimeter
- Gel documentation and analyser systems
- Micromanipulator
- Refrigerated high-speed centrifuges
- PCR machines
- Electrophoresis units
- Cell fusion system
- Deep freezers
- Gas-liquid chromatography (GLC)
- CO₂–O₂ analyser
- Water activity meter
- Modified-atmosphere packaging (MAP) machine
For enquiries about research facilities, mushroom cultures, spawn availability or training, please contact the institute through its Contact Us page.